Government of the Republic of South Africa

05/21/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/21/2026 10:05

Government Communications calls for respectful use of South Africa’s national symbols

Government calls on all citizens and foreign nationals residing within the borders of South Africa to exercise respect and dignity in the use and display of the country's national symbols.

South Africa's national symbols including the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem and other official emblems, carry deep historical, cultural and political significance. These symbols embody the values, sacrifices and democratic identity of the nation, and serve as powerful representations of unity, freedom and constitutional democracy.

Government reminds the public that national symbols are protected and regulated in terms of South African law to preserve their dignity and integrity. Their use, display and reproduction are subject to prescribed protocols and limitations, and any misuse, desecration or unauthorized exploitation undermines the values they represent.

All individuals and civil society are therefore urged to ensure that national symbols are treated with the highest level of respect, whether in public spaces, events, digital platforms, or private functions.

As South Africans continue to celebrate the country's diversity and shared heritage, Government encourages everyone to uphold the spirit of patriotism, social cohesion.

Media enquiries:
Ms Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting Government Spokesperson
Cell: 083 653 7485

Mr William Baloyi, Deputy Government Spokesperson
Cell: 083 390 7147

#GovZAUpdates

Government of the Republic of South Africa published this content on May 21, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 21, 2026 at 16:05 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]