Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has announced that a new series of upgraded ZiG banknotes will begin circulating in the economy starting April 7, 2026, marking a key step in the country’s ongoing monetary reforms.
In a press statement, the central bank said the rollout of the “Big 5 ZiG” banknote series follows guidance outlined in the February 2026 Monetary Policy Statement and is in accordance with Statutory Instrument 37 of 2026. The move comes after a nationwide public education and awareness campaign conducted throughout March to prepare citizens and businesses for the transition.
The new banknotes will be introduced in phases, beginning with ZiG10, ZiG20, and a newly issued ZiG50 denomination. Higher denominations—ZiG100 and ZiG200—will be released later, depending on demand and prevailing economic conditions.
RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu emphasized the bank’s readiness for the rollout and reassured the public about availability.
“The Reserve Bank and banking institutions have put in place all the necessary logistics and operational modalities for the seamless rollout of the upgraded Big 5 ZiG banknotes,” he said.
According to the statement, sufficient quantities of the new banknotes have already been distributed nationwide to meet expected demand, within existing withdrawal limits.
The central bank also confirmed that previously issued ZiG coins introduced in April 2024 in denominations such as ZiG1, ZiG2, and ZiG5 will remain in circulation to support smaller transactions and ease demand for lower-value notes.
Importantly, the Reserve Bank clarified that old ZiG banknotes will continue to circulate alongside the new series for the foreseeable future. They will be gradually withdrawn only as they are returned to the banking system.
The upgraded notes will be accessible through standard banking channels, including bank branches, ATMs, and Homelink kiosks. Retailers and merchants have been encouraged to provide cashback services, while mobile money operators are expected to resume ZiG cash-in and cash-out services.
Weekly cash withdrawal limits have been set at up to ZiG10,000 for individuals and ZiG100,000 for corporate entities.
Reaffirming the institution’s policy stance, Dr Mushayavanhu said:
“The Reserve Bank affirms its strong commitment to stay the course with prudent monetary policy management, which is critical for sustained price, currency, and exchange rate stability now and in the future.”
He also urged the public to adopt the new currency series with confidence.
“The public is encouraged to embrace and use the upgraded Big 5 ZiG banknote series with pride and confidence,” he said.
The Reserve Bank described the new series as “stable, secure, and sustainable,” underscoring its broader goal of strengthening trust and stability in Zimbabwe’s financial system.
