Peasants´Day is celebrated on August 8 each year in Tanzania and aims to celebrate the farmers that keep society fed and running. This day was also known as Workers’ Day, then Industry’s Day, and Farmer’s Day. It was originally celebrated as Saba Saba, which means “seven, seven.” This caused a bit of confusion to the public when Farmers’ Day was established on August 8. Therefore, the two holidays were combined and are now celebrated as one public holiday. This is a public holiday for the general population and a day on which people can enjoy communal meals, drinking, dancing, and music.
History of Peasants' Day
Agriculture is very important in Tanzania. Half of all workers living in Tanzania work in the sector and agriculture contributes to almost a third of Tanzania’s gross domestic product and accounts for 85% of exports. The largest food crop is maize and the largest cash crop is sugar. Even though agriculture has a crucial role in the economy and prosperity of the country, it still faces challenges in terms of productivity.
Peasants’ Day or Farmers’ Day is a day to honor farmers and focus on the contribution of the sector to the country, like other African countries that rely on farming and agriculture. It is a great opportunity to share new technologies and developments in farming, improve education and highlight best practices. On August 1, agricultural fairs start, with eight fairs organized for August 8.
On July 7 every year, before 1992, Peasants’ Day was celebrated under the name ‘Saba Saba’ Day. But as it caused a bit of confusion when August 8 was named a national holiday, the name was changed to Farmers’ Day or ‘Nane Nane,’ meaning eight, eight. Some people would take both days off, some people would take the seventh off, and other people would take the eighth off. There was a huge agricultural festival that took place in the city of Mwanza before both holidays were combined into one day. At the said festivals, farmers from all over the country would bring their produce and show off their wares.
Peasants' Day timeline
Two countries, Tanganyika and Zanzibar unite to create the United Republic of Tanzania.
They were held on July 7 under the name ‘Saba Saba’ but were later changed to ‘Nane, Nane’ to reflect the new celebration date of August 8.
A survey indicates that families grow their crops to eat.
Every year ‘Nane, Nane’ takes place in different locations, for example in Ngongo, Lindi Region.
Peasants' Day FAQs
Is Tanzania a poor or rich country?
In terms of per capita income, Tanzania is one of the world’s poorest economies, which is primarily fueled by agriculture.
Is Tanzania safe?
It is regarded as one of the safest African countries, both for locals and tourists.
What is the biggest holiday in Tanzania?
Eid al-Adha is the most important of all Islamic festivals and is a public holiday in Tanzania.
Peasants' Day Activities
Host a party
Invite your friends and loved ones and host a party to have fun. You can also decorate the place with the flag of Tanzania to make the party more interesting.
Cook a Tanzanian traditional dish
You can look up a recipe on the Internet and try to cook a traditional Tanzanian dish. Some traditional dishes are ‘Mchuzi wa Samaki,’ ‘Chipsi Mayai,’ and ‘Mchemsho.’
Raise awareness in social media
Share a post explaining the importance of farmers to Tanzanian society. Search for information on the Internet to get to know them better.
5 Facts About Tanzanian Culture
Careful with photos
Some ethnic groups of Tanzania believe that a piece of their soul is stolen when a photo of them is taken.
Use your right hand
When you are greeting a local in Tanzania, make sure you only extend your right hand for a handshake as the left hand is considered dirty and is used for bathroom activities.
Do not sniff your food
In Tanzania sniffing your food is a sign of suspicion and distaste.
Do not show public affection
Hugging, kissing, and holding hands is something that should be done only in private in Tanzania.
Wear modest clothing
Tanzania is a deeply conservative country so wearing revealing clothes is disrespectful and it’s always best to dress modestly.
Why We Love Peasants' Day
We get to celebrate hardworking people
Farmers are some of the most hardworking people you will ever meet. A day that allows us to celebrate and appreciate them is really a great one.
It places focus on a nation
Tanzania is located in the eastern part of Africa and may not be known to many people. This day raises curiosity about this nation and we get to research and learn more about this Swahili-speaking nation.
It promotes resiliance
In a world that seems to value things that come quickly and without effort, it is good to appreciate those willing to work for what they need. Peasants' Day celebrates the reliance of Tanzania’s farmers and we appreciate them all the more.
Peasants' Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August 8 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 8 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 8 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 8 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | August 8 | Wednesday |
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