2021 Holidays - Zambia

Zambia Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- Zambia observes several public holidays annually, including national, cultural, and religious celebrations. Employees are entitled to a day off with pay on public holidays as mandated by Zambia’s Employment Code Act. Source

2. Substitution of Holidays Falling on a Weekend

- If a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday is typically observed as a substitute holiday to ensure employees receive their holiday entitlement. This practice is common in Zambia. Source

3. Working on Public Holidays

- Employees required to work on public holidays are entitled to additional compensation, typically at a premium rate such as double pay, or a compensatory day off, as outlined in Zambia’s labor laws or individual employment contracts. Source

4. Public Holidays During Paid Leave

- Public holidays that fall during an employee’s paid leave are not deducted from their total annual leave entitlement. Employees retain the full number of their vacation days in such cases. Source

5. Additional Notes

- Zambia’s public holiday calendar includes national holidays such as Independence Day and Youth Day, as well as religious holidays like Christmas and Easter. Employers and employees are encouraged to refer to official government announcements for the annual holiday schedule to ensure compliance. Source