Public Holidays in Mozambique
Mozambique’s national public holidays mark historical and civic events, and the Labour Law sets a nationwide rule for suspending work on those days. The calendar includes commemorations such as Independence Day, Victory Day and Peace and Reconciliation Day.[1][2]
Legal status and time off
Mozambique’s Labour Law No. 13/2023 says national public holidays are days when work is suspended for workers throughout the country. It lists nine national holidays and allows other holidays to be established by law.[1]
The suspension does not cover work that cannot be interrupted by its nature. The law names examples including medical and hospital services, water and energy supply, transport, hotels and restaurants. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the suspension is deferred to the following day, subject to those exceptions.[1]
Dates and national meaning
The government’s national list includes New Year’s Day, Heroes’ Day on 3 February, Mozambican Women’s Day on 7 April, International Workers’ Day on 1 May, Independence Day on 25 June, Victory Day on 7 September, Armed Forces Day on 25 September, Peace and Reconciliation Day on 4 October, and Family Day on 25 December.[1][2]
Several dates are tied directly to Mozambique’s history. The government describes 25 June as Independence Day, 7 September as commemorating the Lusaka Accords, 25 September as marking the start of the armed liberation struggle, and 4 October as honoring the General Peace Agreement.[2] The Presidency describes the Lusaka Accords, signed by FRELIMO and Portugal, as a milestone in the achievement of independence.[3]
How the days are observed
For Victory Day, a Presidency announcement described a central ceremony led by the president, beginning with a wreath-laying at the Monument to Mozambican Heroes.[3]
Many workers have the day off, but essential and other non-interruptible services may continue. Check with banks, shops, tourist sites and transport providers before making plans.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
Is a public holiday a day off in Mozambique?
National public holidays suspend work for workers across the country, but the law excludes work that cannot be interrupted by its nature, including some essential services.[1]
What happens when a national holiday falls on Sunday?
The Labour Law provides for the work suspension to move to the following day, subject to exceptions for non-interruptible activities.[1]
Are banks, shops and transport open on public holidays?
Transport, hotels and restaurants are among the non-interruptible activities listed by law. Check with banks, shops and transport providers for their opening hours.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Public Holiday in Mozambique:
- I SÉRIE — Número 165- Ministério do Trabalho, Género e Acção Social, República de Moçambique
- Informação Geral- Portal do Governo de Moçambique
- Presidente da República dirige cerimónia central do Dia da Vitória- Presidência da República de Moçambique