The blue triangle represents the Nile River, the source of life, while the yellow star inside it signifies the nation's hope and unity. In this way, the flag embodies South Sudan's identity and its hopes for the future.

This flag's design is derived from the flag of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement, which led the country to independence. It also uses Pan-African colours (red, green, and black), common in many African flags, to express solidarity with the African continent. Thus, it can be used symbolically to talk about independence, new beginnings, and hope.