Rwanda National Emblem | Symbols & Their Meanings

The emblem of Rwanda was introduced in 2001 to match the colors of the new national flag. It also serves as an important national symbol created by the government to promote unity, work, and patriotism, values shown on the emblem and stated in the national motto: “Ubumwe, Umurimo, Gukunda Igihugu,” which means “Unity, Work, Patriotism” in Kinyarwanda.

The emblem includes traditional symbols such as a stem of sorghum, a branch of coffee, and a traditional basket. These are placed in the center on top of a cogwheel. Above them is the sun with shining rays. Two Rwandan shields, one on each side, protect the items, and all are surrounded by a square knot. The national flag has green and yellow stripes covering half of it, while the other half is blue with a yellow sun and rays on the right side.

The seal of Rwanda is made of a green ring with a knot of the same color on the edge. At the top of the ring are the words “The Republic of Rwanda.” Another knot carries the national motto, showing unity, work, and patriotism, with the words written in black letters on a yellow background.

The emblem was changed to remove connections to the genocide of 1994. Before that, in the 1960s, Rwanda’s emblem had the colors green, yellow, and red, which stood for peace and hope for the country’s future. Some people questioned the change, saying it was a way for the ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front to show political control.

National emblems are official signs used by countries. Most nations have both a flag and an emblem. The Rwandan flag was designed by an artist and an engineer. The sun on the flag stands for the country’s plant life and also shows unity, openness, and growth of the people of Rwanda.

Rwanda also has a national anthem called “Rwanda Nziza.” It tells the story of the country in short verses and gives praise to the nation.