Ukrainian-born US biochemist who was awarded a Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1952 for his discovery of streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against tuberculosis. He coined the word antibiotic for bacteria-killing chemicals derived from micro-organisms.
Green stands for the country's natural resources. White represents peace, justice, and unity. Blue recalls the sea and the capital Freetown's natural harbour. Effective date: 27 April 1961.