The flag comprises seven stripes of black, yellow, red, green, white, blue, and maroon with the royal arms in the centre. The colour symbolize social development factors with black representing the soil, yellow wealth, red defence, green vegetation, white purity and peace, blue religion and maroon royalty.

The blazon of the Royal Arms is described as: Arms: Argent, in pale the sceptre of the King between four huts, over all in base a representation of the Royal Hut, proper.

Supporters: On a ground sable, two lions Or, armed Argent & langued sable.

Motto: Ilembe Leqa Amanye Ngoku Khalipha (Together we shall surmount - an allusion to the motto on the former South African arms, Unity is Strength). The silver (white) shield is derived from the colour ox-hide of the royal herd and the sceptre of "Inhlendlaâ€ù is the symbol of the King's authority. The Royal Hut never stands alone and the King is the "Lion of the Zuluâ€ù, hence the choice of supporters.

The flag of King Goodwill Zwelithini is a personal royal standard and is flown at all royal households, on official vehicles and buildings conducting royal business.

Source: Article by Theo Stylianides and Bruce Berry in SAVA Newsletter  27/00 (pg 5). Jens Pattke, 20 Feb 2001