The present South African national flag was first flown on 27 April 1994.

The new South African flag is a political compromise that became an accidental hit.

Then three helicopters passed by, pulling huge South African flags.

The aircraft were also painted in orange, white and blue to represent the then current South African flag.

The South African flag was hoisted at the end of the ceremony.

Pistorius was chosen to carry the South African flag for the closing ceremony.

"But I'm very proud the South African flag has been flown," he said.

Green on some African flags represents the natural richness of Africa.

One man waved the new South African flag at the stars above the township.

He spoke just before the South African flag was lowered.