The flag of Mauritania is made up of a gold crescent moon and star at its centre, symbolizing the country's Islamic identity. The crescent and star represent the faith of Islam, with the crescent signifying growth and the star representing guidance. The green background is traditionally also associated with Islam.
When Mauritania gained independence from France on November 28, 1960, the first flag of the country featured a green field with a golden crescent and star in the centre, signifying the nation's Islamic heritage. This flag represented Mauritania’s independence and its commitment to Islamic values.
In 2017, Mauritania’s flag was modified under the administration of President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz.
The new design added two red horizontal stripes, one at the top and one at the bottom of the flag. The red stripes symbolize the sacrifices made during the country’s struggle for independence and the bloodshed that came with it. The flag’s central symbolism – the green field with the golden crescent and star – remained unchanged.
The addition of the red stripes was a significant political and cultural statement, linking Mauritania's Islamic identity with its national history and the sacrifices made during the colonial struggle. The red stripes are seen as a tribute to the martyrs and the independence movement, aligning with the national desire to reflect a history of freedom and unity.
