Africa Day in Namibia
Namibia observes Africa Day on 25 May, when the Public Holidays Act lists it as a public holiday. The date recalls the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) and carries a wider message of African unity and solidarity.[1][2]
A public holiday set by law
Namibia’s Public Holidays Act, 1990, names Africa Day as a public holiday on the twenty-fifth day of May. The Schedule lists it separately from Heroes Day, which falls on 26 August, and Cassinga Day, which falls on 4 May.[1]
The Act provides an additional public holiday on the Monday after a public holiday that falls on Sunday, unless that Monday is already a public holiday. It does not state a corresponding substitute day when a holiday falls on Saturday. The date is fixed, so Africa Day remains on 25 May each year.[1]
The date’s history and meaning
Africa Day commemorates the OAU’s founding in Addis Ababa on 25 May 1963. The African Union describes the day as a reminder of the continent’s shared history and collective efforts toward unity and solidarity. The OAU later became the African Union.[2]
In Namibia, the holiday’s distinct national feature is its place in the statutory calendar. Its date links the country’s public observance to a continental anniversary; the Act itself sets the date but does not prescribe a particular ceremony or custom.[1][2]
Planning for the day
A public holiday can affect work and opening schedules, but the Act does not set hours for individual offices, banks, shops or transport services. Check directly with the provider you plan to use, especially if you need an appointment, a bank service or a particular route.[1]
The date stays 25 May even when it falls on a Saturday. If it falls on a Sunday, the Act makes the following Monday a public holiday too, subject to the Monday exception in the law. Check official notices for any additional holiday declared by proclamation for a particular year.[1]
Frequently asked questions
When is Africa Day in Namibia?
Africa Day is observed on 25 May. Namibia’s Public Holidays Act lists it on that fixed date.[1]
Is Africa Day a public holiday in Namibia?
Yes. The Public Holidays Act names Africa Day as a public holiday. The Act establishes the status and date; check with your employer about your work arrangements.[1]
Is there a substitute day if Africa Day falls on a weekend?
The Act provides that the following Monday is also a public holiday when a public holiday falls on Sunday, unless that Monday is already a public holiday. It does not provide a Saturday substitute rule.[1]
Are offices, banks and shops open?
Opening hours are not set by the Public Holidays Act for individual businesses or services. Confirm hours with the office, bank, shop or transport provider before you travel.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Africa Day in Namibia:
- Public Holidays Act 26 of 1990- National Archives of Namibia
- Africa Day 2025: Powerful Reminder of the Continent's Resilience, Diversity and Potential.- African Union