Upon independence from Britain (Dec. 12, 1963), the Kenyan flag became official. It was based on the flag of the Kenya African National Union. Black is for the people, red for humanity and the struggle for freedom, green for the fertile land, and white for unity and peace. The shield and spears are traditional weapons of the Masai people.

Kenya Official name: Jamhuri ya Kenya (Swahili); Republic of Kenya (English). Form of government: unitary multiparty republic with one legislative house (National Assembly [224]). Head of state and government: President. Population (1998): 28,337,000. Population projection: (2000) 29,251,000; (2010) 32,443,000. Natural increase rate per 1,000 population (1996): 21.6 (world avg. 15.7). Gross national product (1996): U.S.$8,661,000,000 (U.S.$320 per capita). Land use (1994): forest 29.5%; pasture 37.4%; agriculture 8.0%; other 25.1%.

© 2001 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated