Heroes’ Day (Zambia)

Heroes’ Day in Zambia is a national public holiday that commemorates Zambians who fought and died during the long struggle for Zambia’s independence from Britain. It also celebrates individuals from all walks of life who have made heroic contributions to the nation. On the tenth anniversary of independence in 1974, the Zambian Freedom Statue, featuring freedom-fighter Zanco Mpundu Mutembo breaking free of his chains, was unveiled in the capital, Lusaka. This statue has become a focal point for many significant occasions and is featured on all of Zambia’s banknotes. Heroes’ Day marks the beginning of a two-day public holiday, concluding with Unity Day.