The flag of Niger consists of three horizontal stripes: orange at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. In the center of the white stripe is a circle (representing the sun) that is orange in color. Orange symbolizes the Sahara Desert, which covers much of the country. White represents peace and purity. Green stands for hope, the country's fertile land, and the agricultural potential of Niger. The sun in the center of the flag signifies the country's bright future and the importance of the sun to the region. The flag was adopted on November 23, 1959, when Niger gained independence from France