Ion that has both a positive and a negative charge, such as an amino acid in neutral solution. For example, glycine contains both a basic amino group (NH2) and an acidic carboxyl group (COOH); when these are both ionized in aqueous solution, the acid group loses a proton while the amino group gains one, and the molecule is positively charged at one end and negatively charged at the other.
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.