Coat of Arms of Zimbabwe
The Coat of Arms of Zimbabwe was adopted on September 21, 1981, one year and five months after the national flag was adopted.
Description
The Coat of Arms depicts two kudus on the left and right, each standing on top of an earthly mound composed of stalks of wheat, a pile of cotton, and a head of maize. At their feet there is also a banner emblazoned with the Zimbabwe national motto (Unity, Freedom, Work). The shield itself is green, featuring 14 waves of alternating white and blue waved lines at top (chief argent), and also at the center of the shield a representation of the ancient Kingdom of Great Zimbabwe is shown. Placed behind the shield are an agricultural hoe (to the left) and an AK-47 automatic rifle (to the right), both of which are tied with twisted strips of green and gold silk. On the crest, the red star and the Great Zimbabwe bird, which are also depicted in the national flag, are shown.
Meanings
The meanings of the Zimbabwe Coat of Arms are as follows:
- Kudus: the unity of Zimbabwe's various ethnic groups
- Earthly Mound: the need to always provide for the Zimbabweans
- Motto Banner: the need to mantain national unity and the preservation of freedom
- Shield: the fertility of the country's soil and water
- Great Zimbabwe: the historical heritage of the nation
- Hoe and Rifle: the transition of Zimbabwe from war to peace
- Strips of Silk: the national financial enterprise and the protection of the economy
- Red Star: hope for the future of Zimbabwe. The red colour depicts the former suffering of the Zimbabwean nation.
- Great Zimbabwe Bird: national identity