The Zambian Government has announced changes to the country’s public holiday calendar, merging the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Reconciliation, traditionally observed on October 18, with the commemoration of Zambia’s declaration as a Christian Nation on December 29.
According to a press statement issued by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick K. Kangwa, the decision follows consultations between the Government of the Republic of Zambia and Church Mother Bodies.
The two commemorations will now be observed under one unified event known as the National Day of Prayer and Christian Heritage, with the first consolidated commemoration scheduled for December 29, 2026.
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As part of the changes, the Government has revoked Statutory Instrument No. 78 of 2015, which declared October 18 a public holiday.
The Government has also issued Statutory Instrument No. 73 of 2026, declaring December 29 a public holiday under the new National Day of Prayer and Christian Heritage.
The changes mean that October 18, 2026, will no longer be observed as a public holiday in Zambia, while December 29 will take its place as the date for the consolidated national commemoration.
The statement further confirms that Zambia’s 2026 public holiday calendar has been amended to reflect the changes.
The National Day of Prayer and Christian Heritage will bring together the two previously separate commemorations, following consultations between the Government and Church Mother Bodies.
The announcement was signed by Kangwa and issued for immediate release.
Zambians are therefore expected to take note of the revised public holiday calendar, particularly the removal of October 18 as a public holiday and the designation of December 29 for the combined observance.
The change marks a new arrangement for the national commemoration of prayer and Zambia’s Christian heritage, beginning in 2026.
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