Adopted in 1966 to replace the Union Jack, it has been the flag of the Republic of Botswana since the country gained independence that year.

[2] It was designed in order to contrast with the Flag of South Africa at the time when apartheid was in effect.

They represent the harmony and cooperation between the people of different races who live in Botswana, as well as the racial diversity of the country.

This occurred after the leaders of the Tswana people negotiated with the British to offer them protection from the Boers, who were invading their lands from the neighbouring South African Republic.

[6] It was designed to be distinct from the flag of South Africa, due to the country’s apartheid system.