Africa Day in Gambia

A continental anniversary with a Gambian name

Africa Day marks the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Addis Ababa on May 25, 1963. The African Union records that the 32 African states that had achieved independence at the time agreed to establish the OAU. Its charter set out aims including unity and solidarity among African states, cooperation, and the defence of sovereignty and independence.[3][4]

In Gambian official sources, the name African Liberation Day appears alongside Africa Day and African Day. The government’s events page describes Africa Day as the annual commemoration of the OAU’s foundation. The African Union’s membership record says The Gambia joined the OAU on March 9, 1965, after its establishment; the country’s connection to the date is therefore as a later member commemorating a continental milestone.[1][2][4]

Public-holiday status and observance

The government holiday list places African Liberation Day (African Day) on May 25. The Office of the President has also issued public-holiday declarations for the observance: one declared May 25 a public holiday throughout the country, and another declared the following Monday a nationwide public holiday when May 25 fell on a Sunday.[1][2]

A replacement day was declared for 2025, when May 25 fell on a Sunday. Check official announcements for the applicable year if the fixed date falls on a weekend.[2]

Events, customs and practical planning

Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity and its historical significance for Africa.[1][2]

A presidential declaration makes the specified date a public holiday throughout the country. Government offices close on that date; check with banks, shops and transport operators about their hours.[2]

Africa Day across the continent

Across Africa, May 25 recalls the creation of the OAU, the predecessor of the African Union. The African Union describes the founding as an expression of a vision for a united and independent continent.[3][4]