Celebrating African Unity through the Flags of the OAU

Introduction

The OAU flags have been a symbol of African unity and liberation for more than half a century. These flags have undergone significant changes since their creation, but the underlying message remains the same. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the OAU flags and compare the old and new designs to explore their similarities and differences. We’ll also examine the underlying symbolism and meaning of the flags, and consider their significance for African integration and development. Join us on a journey through the rich history of the OAU flags and discover what makes them such an enduring symbol of African pride and solidarity.

Overview of the Organization of African Unity

The Organization of African Unity (OAU) was established on May 25, 1963, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This continental organization was created by 32 independent African states to promote cooperation, unity, and solidarity among African nations, as well as to accelerate the process of decolonization and freedom of the continent from foreign domination and exploitation.

The OAU was inspired by the Pan-African ideology of leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, and Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt, who advocated for the liberation and unity of Africa. The OAU Charter emphasized the need for political and economic cooperation, peaceful resolution of disputes, non-interference in member states’ internal affairs, human rights, and self-determination.

Over the years, the OAU played a significant role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, mediating conflicts in Africa, promoting regional integration, and advocating for the sovereignty and development of African countries. The organization remained active until it was succeeded by the African Union (AU) in 2002.

The OAU had its own flag, which was designed to symbolize African unity, dignity, and freedom. The original flag consisted of five horizontal stripes of green, yellow, red, black, and blue colors, representing the natural resources, sunlight, bloodshed, people, and hope of Africa.

The OAU flag became a recognizable symbol of African liberation and solidarity, and it was used on various occasions, such as the raising of the flag during ceremonies, conferences, and meetings of the organization. The flag also had a motto inscribed in the center, which read “Organisation de l’Unité Africaine” in French, meaning “Organization of African Unity.”

To learn more about the history of the OAU flag, click here. To know more about the colors and symbols used in the OAU flag, click here.

History of the OAU Flag

The OAU flag has a rich history that reflects the struggles and aspirations of the African continent. The original flag was designed and adopted in 1963 at the founding of the Organization of African Unity, which aimed to promote unity, solidarity, and cooperation among African states. The flag featured five horizontal stripes in the Pan-African colors of red, green, and gold, and at the center was the emblem of the OAU, which depicted an African spear and a hoe superimposed on a map of Africa, encircled by an olive branch. This flag flew over many historic moments in Africa’s liberation movement and was replaced in 2002 with a new flag that reflected the changing times and aspirations of the African people. The history of both flags highlights the importance of African unity and liberation, and their design and symbolism continue to inspire pride and hope in the hearts of many Africans.

Design and Symbolism

The original OAU flag was designed with a simple but powerful symbolism that captured the aspirations of the African continent during the early years of its independence. The flag consisted of three horizontal stripes of equal size, colored in the Pan-African colors of red, green, and black. The red stripe represented the blood of African martyrs who fought for liberation, the green symbolized the fertility and hope of the African lands, and the black stripe stood for the people of African descent. In the center of the flag was a golden depiction of an eagle, with its wings spread, perched atop a map of Africa.

The eagle is a common symbol of strength, power, and freedom across many cultures, and its placement on the OAU flag was meant to represent these values in the African context. The map of Africa was used to highlight the continental unity and the focus on Africa’s development. The OAU motto “Africa Unite” was also present on the flag, emphasizing the importance of unity in achieving the shared goals of the continent.

The design of the original OAU flag was intended to inspire and motivate the people of Africa to continue the struggle for liberation and unity against the colonial and oppressive forces of the time. The symbolism was simple yet profound, reflecting the spirit of the time and the aspirations of the African people.

However, as times changed, so did the symbolism and design of the OAU flag. Its evolution over the years reflected the changing attitudes and priorities of the continent and its leaders. The newer design was meant to be more modern and inclusive, to reflect the diversity and complexity of African societies. The design process was an extensive and iterative collaboration between many stakeholders, to ensure that the new flag accurately captured the essence of Africa.

Click here to know more about the design process of the OAU flag.

Evolution and Changes

The OAU flag has evolved over the course of its history, undergoing several changes to match the evolving political and social circumstances in Africa. In its original form, the OAU flag featured a green background with a gold depiction of Africa in the center, surrounded by 12 gold stars and the letters “OAU” in gold at the bottom. Over time, this design underwent several modifications.

1972: The original version of the OAU flag was introduced in 1963 alongside the formation of the organization. However, in 1972, the flag design was altered to feature a single gold star instead of 12 and to have the letters “OAU” in black at the center bottom of the flag against a green background.

1973-2002: In 1973, another modification was made to the flag design, which involved removing the gold continent Africa emblem. The flag retained a green background, but instead of the gold emblem, it now had a single gold star in the center, superimposed on a white circle. The letters “OAU” in black appeared below the star in the center bottom of the flag. This design remained unchanged until the dissolution of the OAU in 2002.

2002: Following the dissolution of the OAU, a new organization, the African Union (AU), was formed. The AU adopted a new flag, which replaced the old OAU flag. However, the design was inspired by the old OAU flag, and it incorporated some of its elements, such as the green background. The new flag featured a gold emblem of an African map in the center, surrounded by a circle of 53 golden stars representing all the member states of the AU. The organization’s name, “African Union,” is written in white at the bottom.

These changes in the OAU flag design demonstrate the organization’s evolution and adaptation to new political and social realities. Every modification of the OAU flag has a special significance that reflects the historical background of the organization and its member states’ political situation. The emblem, stars, and colors used in the flag design symbolize Africa’s unity, strength, and solidarity.

Creation and Design of the Current Flag

The creation of the current OAU flag was intended to give a better representation of African unity and aspirations. The design of the current flag was inspired by the previous flag and was created by a committee of African artists, led by Professor Theophilus Owolabi. The main elements of the flag are the green, gold, and the red horizontal stripes. The blue circle with 53 gold stars represents the member states of the African Union. The gold color represents the wealth and bright future of Africa, while the green and red colors represent the hope and struggles for freedom and independence. The design process was rigorous and involved thorough discussions and deliberations to ensure that the final design captures the essence of African unity and aspirations. The current flag was adopted on July 31, 2002, and unveiled the following day during the 36th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the OAU.

Main Elements and Significance

The current flag of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) features a complex yet meaningful design, with several key elements that showcase the shared values and aspirations of African nations. The main elements of the new OAU flag are:

Element	Symbolism
Pan-African colours	The three stripes in green, gold, and red represent the unity and solidarity of African nations, as well as the struggles for liberation and independence from colonial powers. These colours can be found in many African national flags and are recognized as symbols of the continent.
Map of Africa	The map of the African continent in the center of the flag embodies the collective identity and diversity of African nations, as well as their shared history and heritage. The map is depicted in a golden colour, which signifies the richness and potential of Africa’s resources and people.
Circle of 53 stars	The circle of 53 stars around the map represents the member states of the OAU at the time of the flag’s adoption in 2002. Each star is placed in the location of the capital city of the corresponding country, creating a sense of geographical unity and interconnectivity among African nations.
Motto	The OAU motto, “One Africa, One Destiny”, is inscribed in a scroll at the bottom of the flag. This phrase encapsulates the spirit of pan-Africanism and the vision of a united, prosperous, and peaceful continent. It is a call to action for all African nations to work together towards common goals and overcome challenges.

The main significance of these elements is their representation of African unity, identity, and aspirations. The pan-African colours, map of Africa, and circle of stars all emphasize the collective strength, diversity, and potential of African nations. They also evoke the struggles and sacrifices of past generations in the fight for liberation, independence, and dignity.

The “One Africa, One Destiny” motto further emphasizes the importance of cooperation, solidarity, and shared responsibility among African nations, as well as the need to overcome the legacies of colonialism, inequality, and conflict. The main elements and significance of the new OAU flag reflect a vision and commitment to a better future for Africa and its people.

Learn more about the meaning of the OAU flag’s motto.

Adoption and Unveiling

The adoption and unveiling of the new OAU flag was a momentous occasion in the history of the organization. In June 2001, during the 37th ordinary session of the OAU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Lusaka, Zambia, the new flag was officially adopted. The adoption of the new flag was hailed as a symbolic representation of Africa’s rebirth and a new phase in the continent’s development.

The unveiling of the new flag was a grand ceremony that attracted a lot of attention from all over the world. The new flag was designed to capture the essence of the African continent and to symbolize the unity of its people. The flag was displayed on a massive pole, which was raised moments before the start of the ceremony. The moment of the raising of the flag was greeted with cheers and applause from everyone present, as it symbolized a new era of African unity and progress.

The design process of the flag was a collaborative effort between several African artists and designers. The flag was designed to reflect the aspirations and shared values of the African people, and to serve as a unifying symbol for the entire African continent. The colors, symbols, and geometric proportions used in the design were carefully selected to convey specific messages about Africa’s past, present, and future.

After its unveiling, the new OAU flag was immediately flown across the entire African continent. It was displayed prominently at all major OAU events, and became a common sight at national and international events attended by African leaders. The flag was also used to decorate public spaces and buildings across the continent, further emphasizing its significance and importance.

The adoption and unveiling of the new OAU flag represented a significant moment in African history. It provided a renewed sense of hope and optimism, and a symbolic representation of Africa’s potential for unity and progress. The new flag has since become an iconic symbol of the African continent, and remains an important part of the OAU’s legacy and vision for the future of Africa.

Similarities between the Old and New OAU Flags

The Old and New OAU flags share many similarities that reflect the continuity of the values and aspirations of the African continent. Firstly, both flags use the same primary colors of green, gold, and red. These colors represent African identity, culture, and natural resources. The green color symbolizes the lush vegetation and abundant natural wealth of Africa, while the gold color represents the sun, energy, and hope for a bright future. The red color symbolizes the bloodshed and sacrifices of the liberation struggles, as well as the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.

Secondly, both flags feature an emblem of a circle with a spear and a staff. This emblem represents the unity and strength of Africa, as well as the determination to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The spear and staff symbolize the African traditions of warriorship and leadership, respect for elders, and communal solidarity. These symbols are deeply rooted in the history and culture of Africa.

Thirdly, both flags have the same geometric proportions of 2:3. This means that the width of the flag is two-thirds of its length. This ratio is common for many national flags, including those of the United States and the United Kingdom. It provides a balance and harmony to the design of the flag and makes it easier to display and fold. The OAU flags are often displayed and hoisted in official ceremonies, parades, and conferences, as a sign of African unity and pride.

The similarities between the old and new OAU flags reflect the continuity and coherence of the African identity and aspirations. The colors, symbols, and proportions of these flags express the values of resilience, dignity, and solidarity that are shared by all African nations. They remind us of the historic struggles for independence and liberation, as well as the ongoing challenges of development and integration. The raising of the new OAU flag was a moment of hope and inspiration for Africans all over the world, as it signaled a new era of progress and cooperation.

Differences between the Old and New OAU Flags

The old and new OAU flags differ in several ways. The old flag had a green background with 12 gold stars forming a circle and an eagle in the center. The eagle represented the strength and courage of African people, while the stars symbolized their aspirations for unity. In contrast, the new flag has a dark green background with a gold African continent in the center, surrounded by 53 gold spears that represent the unity and strength of all African countries. The continent itself is symbolic of the hope for a united and prosperous Africa. The new flag also features the initials “OAU” in bold, gold letters underneath the continent, emphasizing the organization’s name and purpose. While the old flag focused on African aspirations for unity and liberation, the new flag emphasizes the OAU’s commitment to achieving this unity through strength and solidarity.

Color Scheme

The color scheme of the old and new OAU flags is one of the most noticeable differences between the two designs. The old flag has a green, gold, and white color scheme, while the new flag features green, gold, red, and black. Green is a common color in both designs, representing the lush vegetation and agricultural wealth of the African continent.

In the old flag, gold represented the richness of the African soil and its mineral wealth, while white represented purity and the desire for peace.

The new flag added red and black to the color scheme, with red symbolizing the bloodshed and sacrifice of those who fought for African liberation and black representing the people of the African continent. The colors in the new flag were carefully chosen to represent the shared experiences and struggles of African people.

It’s interesting to note that the colors in the old flag have been used in other African flags, including Ghana, Senegal, and Guinea. This shows the influence that the OAU and its symbols had on the continent.

The color scheme of the OAU flags has evolved over time, with the new design incorporating additional colors to represent the struggles and aspirations of the African people. The use of green and gold in both designs shows the importance of natural resources in African history and culture, and the inclusion of red and black in the new design highlights the unity and collective struggle of the African people. To delve deeper into the story behind the OAU flag and how it represents the African continent, check out this article on the OAU flag and its connection to the African continent.

Symbolic Interpretations

The old OAU flag was full of symbolic interpretations that represented not only the identity of the organization but also the aspirations of an entire continent. However, the new OAU flag is a product of a redesign process that aimed to retain its symbolic essence while aligning it with contemporary design principles and societal values.

Symbolic interpretations of the old OAU flag

• Colors: The green, gold and red stripes of the old OAU flag stood for the hope of Africa, the wealth of its soil and the blood shed in the anti-colonial struggles for independence and self-determination
• Circle: The gold circle in the center of the old OAU flag represented the sun, symbolizing the bright future and freedom of an Africa united against colonialism, apartheid, and neo-colonialism
• Bird: The bird in flight in the center of the gold circle represented the collective aspiration of Africans to soar high and overcome the challenges facing them. The bird, which is similar to the one on the emblem of Ghana, symbolized the Pan-African spirit of solidarity and brotherhood

Symbolic interpretations of the new OAU flag

• Colors: The green, gold, and red stripes of the new OAU flag are still retained. However, the blue background represents the African continent and its position on the global map. Blue signifies stability, peace, and harmony as Africa strives to achieve its rightful place as a prosperous, united and peaceful region
• Circle: The golden circle in the center of the new OAU flag represents the sun, which is a common element in many African flags. It symbolizes the hope and aspirations of the African people for a brighter future
• Geometric Proportions: The ratio of the width to the length of the new OAU flag is 2:3, which is a common standard for national flags. This geometric proportion enhances visual harmony, balance and symmetry while conveying a sense of dignity and solemnity

The old and new OAU flags carried different symbolic interpretations but shared the same message of African unity, liberation, and prosperity. The redesign process of the OAU flag was a necessary step to modernize its design while retaining its essential symbolic elements. The OAU flag is a proud symbol of Africa, and it is displayed with the utmost respect and reverence. To learn more about the OAU flag design process, you can visit our article. If you want to see how the OAU flag compares to other flags, check our comparison. Also, if you want to know how to properly display and fold the OAU flag, you can read our article on OAU flag etiquette.

Geometric Proportions

The geometric proportions of the old and new flags of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) are notably different. The old OAU flag featured a circle of gold stars arranged in a pattern of two interlocking semi-circles, with one semi-circle sitting on top of the other. The circle of stars stood out against a backdrop of dark green, with equal horizontal stripes of white, black, and red at the bottom of the flag. The circle of stars in the old flag was precisely positioned both vertically and horizontally, with equal space between each star, resulting in a perfect symmetry.

The new OAU flag, on the other hand, features a complex circular design with a dark green background and golden depiction of Africa overlaid in the center. The depiction of Africa consists of several overlapping circles with a series of smaller semi-circles forming its border. The largest circle within the design is the most significant and dominates the depiction of Africa. It consists of two overlapping semi-circles, with one semi-circle larger than the other. The larger semi-circle forms the bottom of the design while the smaller semi-circle is positioned on top.

The geometric proportion of the new OAU flag reflects a significant departure from the symmetry present in the old OAU flag. The use of overlapping circles instead of the classic equal interval of straight lines shows more dynamism, fluidity, and continuity. The perfect symmetry of the old flag is replaced by a more organic and varied shape that is both more complex and more nuanced.

The geometric proportions of the new OAU flag are crucial to its symbolism. The design of the flag is intended to be a reflection of nature, growth, and African unity, with the colors and shapes used thoughtfully to create a distinct yet harmonious arrangement. The size of the smaller semi-circle of the flag’s central design is intentionally smaller than the larger one to signify that even in unity, each member country of the OAU retains its uniqueness.

The geometric proportions of the old and new OAU flags differ significantly, with the new flag displaying a more organic and varied shape that is both more complex and nuanced than the old one. The geometry of the new flag is integral to its significance, conveying an important message about African unity, diversity, and the continent’s relationship with nature.

Meaning and Significance of the OAU Flags

The OAU flags, both old and new, hold great meaning and significance for African unity and liberation. The symbols and colors on the flags represent shared values and aspirations of African nations, including freedom, peace, and development. The flags also promote the idea of continental integration and cooperation, encouraging member states to work together towards common goals. Ultimately, the OAU flags celebrate the diversity and richness of Africa and its people, while also highlighting the continent’s potential for greatness and progress. They serve as a reminder of the legacy of the OAU and its continued importance in shaping the future of Africa.

A Celebration of African Unity and Liberation

A Celebration of African Unity and Liberation:

The OAU flags, both old and new, represent a powerful symbol of unity and liberation for the African continent. From its inception, the OAU sought to promote collaboration among African nations and to work towards the emancipation of African people from colonialism and apartheid.

The old OAU flag featured a design that symbolized the struggle for independence and liberation. The colors of green, gold, and red represented the African continent’s land, wealth and blood that was shed in the struggle for freedom. The central emblem of the cogwheel and spear further emphasized this theme, representing Africa’s industrial and agricultural potential, as well as its determination to defend its sovereignty and freedom.

Similarly, the new OAU flag continues to celebrate African unity and liberation. The five-pointed star represents the five regions of Africa, and the interlocking rings symbolize the unity of African nations and their commitment to working together towards shared goals. The color scheme also reflects this theme, with the green representing Africa’s land and abundant natural resources, the gold representing Africa’s wealth and potential, and the blue representing Africa’s hope for a better future.

Both the old and new OAU flags serve as powerful reminders of the African continent’s rich history, its struggles against oppression and injustice, and its aspirations for unity, liberation, and development. They are a testament to the resilience and tenacity of African people, and a call to continue working towards a brighter future for all.

Representation of Shared Values and Aspirations

The OAU flags, both old and new, are significant representations of shared African values and aspirations. The flags are designed with symbols and colors that depict the common experiences and aspirations of Africa.

One of the shared values that is represented in the OAU flags is African unity. The flags symbolize the desire for unity and the need for Africans to come together in the face of common challenges. This is shown in the use of colors that unite different regions of Africa, such as green, gold, and red, which are found in both old and new flags.

Another shared aspiration that is represented in the OAU flags is liberation. The flags signify the struggle of African nations to break free from colonialism and assert their independence. This is seen in the use of colors such as black, which is used in both old and new flags to represent the black people of Africa who fought and continue to fight for their liberation.

The flags also represent the shared values of peace and stability. The use of white in both the old and new flags signifies peace and tranquility, which are important values to embrace for the socio-economic development of Africa. Implemented conflict prevention measures are crucial for building peaceful and stable nations on the continent.

The OAU flags represent the shared African aspiration for development. This is reflected in the use of colors such as gold, which is a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and blue, which represents the oceans and water resources that sustain Africa and support its development ambitions.

The OAU flags are significant representations of the shared values and aspirations of Africa. They symbolize the continent’s unity, liberation, peace, stability, and development aspirations and serve as a reminder of the need for Africans to come together to achieve these goals.

Promotion of Continental Integration and Development

The OAU flags played an important role in promoting continental integration and development among the African nations. The flags serve as a reminder of the shared history, culture, and aspirations of the African people. The OAU flags helped to create a sense of unity and solidarity among the African nations, and this remains relevant in the context of modern-day Africa.

One of the ways in which the OAU flags promoted continental integration and development was through the advocacy of Pan-Africanism. The Pan-Africanism movement sought to unite all people of African descent, regardless of their geographic location, under a common identity and purpose. The OAU flags helped to promote this movement by symbolizing the collective identity and values of the African nations.

Another way in which the OAU flags promoted continental integration and development was through the advocacy of self-determination and sovereignty. The flags represented the independence and autonomy of the African nations, and this helped to foster a sense of national pride and responsibility. The OAU flags thus aided in the promotion of peaceful cooperation and mutual respect among the African nations.

The OAU flags also promoted economic development through the creation of a common market and a free trade zone among African countries. The OAU flags represented the commitment of the African nations to work together to promote regional integration, trade, and economic development. The OAU flags thus helped to create a framework for regional collaboration and economic growth that has been critical to the development of the African continent.

The OAU flags played an important role in promoting continental integration and development among the African nations. Their significance lies not only in their symbolism but also in the common ideals and values they represent. The OAU flags continue to serve as a testament to the shared history, culture, and aspirations of the African people, and they remain an important symbol of the hope and promise of a united and prosperous Africa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the OAU flags are a powerful symbol of African unity and liberation. Both the old and new flag designs have deep symbolic meanings that reflect the shared values and aspirations of the African people. The old flag’s simple but powerful design represented the simplicity of African cultures, while the new flag’s more complex design reflects Africa’s growing complexity and diversity. However, despite the differences between the old and new flags, both embody the same message of hope, renewal, and progress for the African continent. The OAU flags remind us that our past struggles and achievements have shaped our present identity. The legacy and future of the OAU flags lie in their ability to inspire, unite, and empower the African people, both at home and abroad.

Legacy and Future of the OAU Flags

The legacy of the OAU flags is one of pride and unity for the African continent. The flags have come to represent the collective aspirations and values of the people of Africa and their shared desire for liberation and development. The OAU flags have played an instrumental role in fostering a sense of solidarity and collaboration among African countries and have been a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Looking to the future, the OAU flags will continue to be a powerful tool for promoting African unity, integration, and development. As the continent grows and evolves, so too will the OAU flags, serving as a reflection of the changing dynamics and identities of African nations. The use of the OAU flags will continue to be an important means of celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of the African continent, while also emphasizing the shared values and aspirations that bind its people together.

However, the OAU flags also face some challenges in the future, especially in a world that is rapidly changing and becoming more digitally-driven. As the use of social media grows, it may become more difficult for the OAU flags to maintain their traditional significance and cultural resonance. The flags may need to adapt to changing technologies and platforms in order to remain relevant and engaging for younger generations.

The OAU flags are a powerful symbol of African unity and have played a significant role in shaping the continent’s history and identity. As the world changes, so too will the flags, adapting to new technologies and evolving cultural identities in order to continue serving as a symbol of hope, resilience, and collaboration for the people of Africa. The future of the OAU flags is bright and promising, with endless possibilities for growth, innovation, and continued celebration of the African spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Organization of African Unity (OAU)?

The Organization of African Unity was an intergovernmental organization established on May 25, 1963, with the objective of promoting the unity and solidarity of African states and to eradicate colonialism and neocolonialism from the African continent.

Why did the OAU need a flag?

The OAU needed a flag to represent their unity and solidarity as well as to serve as a symbol of their aspirations of liberation and development.

What were the main elements and symbolism of the old OAU flag?

The old OAU flag consisted of three horizontal stripes of green, gold, and red, with a circle of 32 rays in the center. The green represented the African land, the gold symbolized the African minerals, and the red signified the blood of African people shed in the fight against colonialism.

What were the main changes that led to the creation of the new OAU flag?

The main changes that led to the creation of the new OAU flag were the need for modernization, the desire to promote unity and reconciliation, the emergence of new African states, and the shift towards pan-Africanism.

What are the main elements and significance of the current OAU flag?

The current OAU flag consists of a horizontal stripe of green, gold, and white, with a circle of 53 stars in the center. The green represents the African land, the gold symbolizes the African minerals and wealth, the white stands for peace and purity, and the 53 stars represent the 53 member states of the African Union.

When was the current OAU flag adopted and unveiled?

The current OAU flag was adopted and unveiled at the 7th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Organization of African Unity in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on July 10, 2002.

What are the main similarities between the old and new OAU flags?

The main similarities between the old and new OAU flags are the use of green, gold, and red colors, which symbolize the African land, minerals, and struggle for freedom.

What are the main differences between the old and new OAU flags?

The main differences between the old and new OAU flags are the addition of the white color to the current flag, the replacement of the circle of 32 rays with 53 stars, and the change in the order of the colors.

What are the symbolic interpretations of the colors used in the OAU flags?

The green represents hope and vegetation, the gold represents wealth and the sun, the red stands for the blood of martyrs and the struggle for freedom, and the white represents peace and purity.

What is the legacy and future of the OAU flags?

The OAU flags serve as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of the African continent and its people. They represent unity, solidarity, and the aspirations of the African people. The future of the OAU flags lies in their continued use to promote African integration, development, and liberation.

References

• UW Staffer Creates New African Union Flag