SA to spend R22 million on 100-m tall national flag 

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture says it will spend R22 million on its National Monumental Flag Project.  

South Africa’s national flag was designed by a former state herald, Fred Brownell, and was first used on 27 April 1994.

WHY WILL SA SPEND R22 MILLION ON A FLAG? 

According to the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, a feasibility study on the development of the South African monumental flag was undertaken in 2020/2021. The results of the feasibility study will inform the brief for the South African national monumental flag.

“R5 million is budgeted in 2022/23 for the site-specific geotechnical studies, including the environmental impact assessment and other tests and applications that will be required prior to construction. In 2023/24 R17 million is allocated for the installation of the monumental flag,” the department said.

The department also said it noted that the flag is the symbol of ‘nationhood’ and the ‘common identity’ of the people of South Africa.

“The flag, as the brand image of the country, needs to be highly recognised by the citizens. Rendering a national flag as a monument of democracy goes a long way in making it highly recognised by the citizens. This has the potential to unite people as it becomes a symbol of unity and common identity.

“The project is envisaged to contribute towards nation-building and social cohesion. During 2022/23, the project will be tracked in the operational plan and the feasibility study conducted will guide the way forward towards installing a monumental flag.”

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

Th feasibility study was launched on 27 April 2021 and approved by President Cyril Ramaphosa in February 2022. Soon after the approval the department justified the project by saying “Monumental flags are installed by countries to express their identity and pride. Once constructed, it will become a national landmark (and) a tourist attraction site that will serve to display the country’s brand image.”

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