Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day is a public holiday in Zimbabwe celebrated annually on the 21st of February. The holiday was officially recognized and declared as such by the Zimbabwean Government in 2017. The day coincides with the birthday of the former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, who served the country as its leader for almost four decades before resigning in November 2017.
The holiday is a tribute to Mugabe's contributions to the liberation and development of Zimbabwe. Known for his decisive role in the struggle for independence, he has been a significant and divisive figure in Africa's history. On this day, numerous events are organized across the country to commemorate his life and efforts. These include speeches by political leaders, public gatherings, and various youth-based activities.
Despite its commemorative nature, Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day has been a subject of controversy reflecting the contentious legacy of Mugabe himself. While he is adored by some for his fierce anti-colonial stance and attempts to alleviate poverty, he has also been criticized for his autocratic rule marked by allegations of human rights abuses and economic mismanagement. The narratives surrounding the holiday often mirror these conflicting perspectives about Mugabe's rule.