Coat of arms of Kenya

Coat of arms of Kenya
Details
Armiger	Republic of Kenya
Adopted	1963
Escutcheon	An African shield: Per fess sable and vert, on a fess gules fimbriated argent a cock grasping in the dexter claw an axe also argent
Supporters	On either side a lion or, grasping in the interior forepaw a spear of estate, the hafts of the spears crosses in saltire behind the shield
Compartment	The whole upon a compartment representing Mount Kenya proper with coffee, pyrethrum, sisal, tea, maize and pineapples.
Motto	Swahili: HARAMBEE Let us all pull together

The coat of arms of Kenya features two lions, a symbol of protection, holding spears and a traditional East African shield. The shield and spears symbolize unity and defence of freedom. The shield contains the national colors, representing:

• Black for the people of Kenya
• Green for the agriculture and natural resources
• Red for the struggle for freedom
• White for unity and peace.

The middle red strip bears a rooster holding an axe, which according to local customs, denotes a new and prosperous life.

The shield and lions stand on a silhouette of Mount Kenya containing in the foreground examples of Kenya agricultural produce - coffee, pyrethrum, sisal, tea, maize and pineapples.

The coat of arms is supported by a scroll upon which is written the word 'Harambee'. In Swahili, Harambee means "pulling together" or "all for one". It is the cry of the fishermen as they draw their nets towards the shore. The same word is echoed by everyone when a collective effort is made for the common good, such as helping a family in need, or the construction of a school or a church.