The Malagasy flag features three colours — red, white, and green — each rich in symbolism. Red represents sovereignty, the strength of the Malagasy state, and patriotism. White stands for purity of heart and the loyalty of the Malagasy people. Green is synonymous with agriculture, biodiversity, and hope.
The country’s emblem is composed of a zebu head, symbolising the importance of this animal to the Malagasy people; a rice paddy (rice being the national food); six small bars representing the six former provinces of the country; wheat ears; and the Ravenala Madagascariensis, or Traveller’s Tree, found only in Madagascar.