Zimbabwe President ED Mnangagwa Declares September 15 Munhumutapa Day Public Holiday

Zimbabwe Officially Declares September 15 as Munhumutapa Day Public Holiday

His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, has officially declared September 15 as an annual public holiday to be recognized across Zimbabwe as Munhumutapa Day.

The declaration was formalized through Statutory Instrument 148 of 2026, titled the Public Holidays and Prohibition of Business (Declaration of Public Holiday) Notice, 2026. Promulgated under section 2(2) of the Public Holidays and Prohibition of Business Act [Chapter 10:21], the notice confirms that September 15 of every year henceforth will be designated as a nationwide public holiday. The official notice was published in a Supplement to the Zimbabwean Government Gazette Extraordinary dated September 9, 2026.

Historical and Cultural Significance
The naming of the holiday honors the historic Mutapa Empire (often referred to as the Empire of Munhumutapa), one of Southern Africa’s most powerful pre-colonial kingdoms. Flourishing between the 15th and 17th centuries, the empire stretched across regions of modern-day Zimbabwe and Mozambique, renowned for its extensive trade networks, rich gold reserves, strategic diplomacy, and architectural heritage connected to Great Zimbabwe.

By establishing Munhumutapa Day, the government aims to celebrate indigenous African heritage, historical leadership, sovereignty, and the rich legacy of pre-colonial civilization in Zimbabwe.

What It Means for the Public
Starting on September 15, 2026, all non-essential businesses, schools, and government offices will observe the national holiday, giving citizens time to reflect on the nation's historical roots and cultural heritage.