Mozambican National Women’s Day 2023: National Women’s Day is annually observed on April 7 in Mozambique. It is the anniversary of the 1971 passing of Josina Muthemba Machel, the activist who fought for the liberation of African women, particularly Mozambican women, during the liberation struggle.
The holiday honours the liberties of women in Mozambique as well as their struggle to attain them.
HISTORY OF MOZAMBICAN NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Josina Machel was the second wife of the first president of Mozambique, Samora Machel. She will forever be remembered for her commitment to Mozambique’s War of Independence and her contribution to the fight for women’s liberation. Josina Abiathar Muthemba was born on August 10, 1945 in Vilankulo.
She fled Mozambique at the age of 19 to join the Mozambican Liberation Front (FRELIMO) in Tanzania, where she fought against the Portuguese colonial regime. She quickly rose through the ranks of FRELIMO and was one of 25 young women to endure three months of military training for the Mozambican guerrilla war. In 1969, she was designated head of FRELIMO’s Department of Social Affairs. In this capacity, she established childcare and educational institutions in northern Mozambique and advocated for girls’ education.
She married Samora Machel in 1969. A year later, she became ill and was brought to Moscow for treatment; liver cancer was the diagnosis. The physicians prescribed bed rest, but Josina refused to comply. She continued her endeavours until her death in 1971, at the age of 25. A year later, FRELIMO proclaimed April 7 as National Women’s Day in Mozambique. In addition, it established the National Organization of Mozambican Women as the social and political instrument of the movement for women. After Mozambique’s independence in 1975, the organisation continued to work towards women’s emancipation.
HOW TO OBSERVE MOZAMBICAN NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Attend an event
Observe a celebration of National Women’s Day in Mozambique. You can host your own as well!
Discover more about Josina Machel.
Research the history of Josina Machel by visiting the library or going online. She is a role model.
Respect the females in your existence.
As a tribute to Mozambican National Women’s Day, lavish and pamper the women in your life. You could begin by taking your girlfriend or girlfriends out to breakfast, lunch or supper, depending on your whims.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MOZAMBIQUE
Most Mozambican individuals are under 17
Approximately fifty percent of Mozambique’s population consists of young adults and infants.
Mozambique’s primary export is prawns
Each year, Mozambique exports thousands of tonnes of crustaceans.
Mozambicans communicate 80 different languages.
In Mozambique, more than 80 languages are spoken.
Mozambique is bordered by six other nations.
Six countries border Mozambique: Malawi, South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
It has the oldest structure in Europe.
It is believed that the chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte, constructed in 1522, is the earliest European structure in the southern hemisphere.
WHY MOZAMBICAN NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY IS IMPORTANT
It is devoted to ladies.
Mozambican women are among the most inspiring in the world. National Women’s Day in Mozambique celebrates their tenacity and determination.
It honours Josina Machel.
The holiday commemorates Mozambican woman and role model Josina Machel. She fought for women’s rights for years, and her legacy continues to inspire women today.
It raises consciousness
National Women’s Day in Mozambique raises awareness of those who fought for women’s rights. It also highlights the fact that women’s liberties in Mozambique still require improvement.
MOZAMBICAN NATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 7 | Friday |
| 2024 | April 7 | Sunday |
| 2025 | April 7 | Monday |
| 2026 | April 7 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | April 7 | Wednesday |
