Moi Day in Kenya: From Presidential Holiday to Mazingira
Moi Day was the former name for Kenya’s October 10 public holiday, associated with Daniel arap Moi, the country’s second president. The Public Holidays Act now lists October 10 as Mazingira Day, following statutory name changes.[1][4]
A holiday with a changing name
The name Moi Day referred to Daniel arap Moi, who became Kenya’s second president in 1978. The former name connected the October holiday with his presidency.[4]
The 2010 Constitution lists three national days, while the High Court ruled in 2017 that Moi Day remained a public holiday under the Public Holidays Act. The court directed the government to treat it as one.[2]
Parliament later changed the name in law: a 2020 amendment replaced “Moi Day” with “Utamaduni Day,” and a 2024 amendment replaced “Utamaduni Day” with “Mazingira Day.”[3][1]
Date and public-holiday rules
The current Act lists Mazingira Day on October 10 each year as a Part I public holiday. If it falls on a Sunday, the first succeeding day that is not itself a public holiday becomes the holiday instead.[1]
The Act applies the Part I holidays generally across Kenya. It also allows a government department to open on a public holiday and require its employees to work; employee arrangements may set conditions such as pay rates or time off in lieu.[1]
Observance and practical plans
The 2024 amendment records the official change of name. Check local announcements for public events before making plans.[1][3]
For errands, treat October 10 and any statutory substitute day as public holidays, but check the specific office or business before travelling. Government departments may operate when required, and employees may work under applicable laws or individual agreements.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is Moi Day still the official name?
When is the holiday observed?
The Act lists Mazingira Day on October 10 each year. If that date falls on a Sunday, the first succeeding day that is not already a public holiday is observed instead.[1]
Is it a day off for everyone?
It is a public holiday listed for Kenya, but government departments may require staff to work, and employment arrangements can provide for work on public holidays under specified conditions.[1]
Will shops, banks, or transport services be open?
The Act allows government departments to open and employees to work under applicable laws or individual agreements. Check with the specific business or operator before making plans.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Moi Day in Kenya:
- Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110)- National Council for Law Reporting, Kenya Law
- Republic v Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security & 2 others; Nyauchi (Ex parte); Federation of Kenya Employers & another (Interested Parties)- High Court of Kenya; National Council for Law Reporting, Kenya Law
- The Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act, 2024- Parliament of Kenya
- Inauguration of President Daniel Moi- Online Presidential Library and Archiving, Government of Kenya