The New September 15 Holiday: Munhumutapa Day and all you need to know about it

Munhumutapa Day, Zimbabwe’s latest addition to the public holiday calendar, will be observed annually on 15 September. 

The holiday was gazetted under General Notice 954 of 2024, issued in terms of the Public Holidays and Prohibition of Business Act [Chapter 10:21].

The day is meant to commemorate President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s birthday, while also drawing inspiration from the historical Munhumutapa Empire.

 Speaking on the day, Zanu PF deputy secretary for Youth Affairs John Paradza confirmed that preparations were already underway for this year’s event:

“Preparations for hosting Munhumutapa Day are underway. The venue is Zvishavane in the Midlands province. The youth will celebrate the achievements made by the President so far.

"President Mnangagwa has launched the Youth Empowerment Scheme by establishing a revolving fund for the youth, business units, farm mechanisation, and the heifer scheme across all the country’s 10 provinces.”

Where will Munhumutapa Day be celebrated?

"The holiday is rotational, meaning it will be hosted by a different province each year. Last year, the celebrations took place in Masvingo. This year, the focus shifts to Zvishavane in Midlands Province, with thousands expected to attend.

"The festivities will include a sports tournament organised by the Zimbabwe National Sports Promotion for Economic Development (ZIMSPORTS4ED).

“Sporting teams in various disciplines across the nation are invited to register for participation, as we look forward to making this event memorable. 

"The tournament is not only a celebration of President Mnangagwa’s birthday but also a recognition of the achievements made by the Second Republic.

"Organisers say over 30,000 people, mostly youths, are expected to attend the main event on 15 September 2025, which will be presided over by the President himself," he said

Why was Munhumutapa Day introduced?

"The holiday was conceived by the Zanu PF Youth League. According to party officials, it aims to honour President Mnangagwa for “embodying the spirit of the great Munhumutapa rulers” as the country moves towards Vision 2030.

"The day is also tied to visible achievements since 2017, such as the Trabablas Interchange, the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport expansion, and the New Parliament Building," Paradza added.

What does this mean for Zimbabweans?

"For citizens, Munhumutapa Day adds another rest day to the calendar, officially recognised by law. It also creates a platform for community activities, particularly around sport, as the government seeks to tackle drug abuse and promote unity," he said.

The holiday will always coincide with President Mnangagwa’s birthday, which is on 15 September.

This year, President Mnangagwa turns 83 years old.