The national coat of arms of The Gambia is a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and identity. It features a shield divided into four quarters, each representing a different aspect of Gambian culture and history. The shield is supported by two lions, which symbolize strength and courage, and is topped by a helmet and a crest.
The first quarter of the shield features a palm tree, which represents the agricultural wealth of The Gambia. The second quarter features a spear and a hoe, which represent the country’s history of resistance against colonialism and its commitment to agriculture. The third quarter features a sailing ship, which represents the country’s history as a center of trade and commerce. The fourth quarter features a white strip of land, which represents the River Gambia, the country’s most important natural resource.
The colors of the coat of arms are green, yellow, red, and blue. Green represents the country’s agricultural wealth, yellow represents the sun and the country’s bright future, red represents the struggle for independence and the blood shed by Gambians in the fight for freedom, and blue represents the River Gambia and the country’s maritime heritage.
The national coat of arms of The Gambia was adopted on the 18th of November, 1964, shortly after the country gained independence from Britain. It was designed by a British artist named David Gentleman, who was commissioned by the Gambian government to create a symbol that would represent the country’s identity and aspirations.
The coat of arms has undergone some changes over the years. In 1970, the helmet and crest were added to the design, and in 1996, the lions were changed from facing each other to facing outward. However, the basic design and symbolism of the coat of arms have remained the same.
The national coat of arms of The Gambia is an important symbol of the country’s identity and history. It represents the country’s agricultural wealth, its history of resistance against colonialism, its maritime heritage, and its commitment to a bright future. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by Gambians in the struggle for independence and a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and independence.