The national Coat of Arms is the most important visual symbol of South Africa. It represents the country, its people, and its authority. This powerful symbol is also a key part of the Great Seal, which is traditionally seen as the highest official emblem of the State.
When a document carries the Great Seal, it means that the document has been officially approved by the President of South Africa. Because of this, any document marked with the Great Seal has full legal authority and must be taken seriously.
South Africa’s current Coat of Arms was officially introduced on Freedom Day, 27 April 2000. This was an important moment in the country’s history. The new design was created to reflect South Africa’s journey into democracy and to celebrate unity, hope, and pride in the nation.
The change also showed the government’s commitment to a new South Africa—one that respects its diverse cultures, honours its past, and looks forward to a shared future. Today, the Coat of Arms stands as a strong symbol of freedom, democracy, and patriotism for all South Africans.
The motto is: !ke e: /xarra //ke, written in the Khoisan language of the /Xam people, literally meaning diverse people unite.