The flag was selected from publicly solicted ideas at the time the nation established itself as a republic in 1990. The design is based on the flag of South West African People's Organization, the political party which led the independence movement and the administration afterward. Red represents the Namibian people and expresses the heroic traits and determination of the Namibians who strive to establish a future where opportunities are offered equally to all citizens. White represents peace and unity, green, the Namibian vegetation and agricultural resources, blue, the sky and rain, and the sun, life and vitality.