In optics, a (usually) triangular block of transparent material (plastic, glass, or silica) commonly used to bend a ray of light or split a light beam (for example, white light) into its component colours. Prisms are used as mirrors to define the optical path in binoculars, camera viewfinders, and periscopes. The dispersive property of prisms is used in the spectroscope.
The star represents Islam and expresses peace, harmony, hope, and socialism. The tricolour is reminiscent of the flag of France, the former colonial power. The pan-African colours express unity with other African nations. Effective date: 25 August 1960.