RBZ to introduce new ZiG bank notes into circulation from Tuesday, April 7

ZIMSPHERE 

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) will begin circulating a new series of ZiG banknotes from April 7, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s currency system, which has for many years been tumultuous. 

In a statement, RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu said the rollout of the upgraded “BiG5 ZiG” banknotes follows prior notice given in the February 2026 Monetary Policy Statement and is in line with Statutory Instrument 37 of 2026.

“The upgraded BiG5 ZiG Banknotes will commence circulation in the economy from 7 April 2026,” Mushayavanhu said.

The central bank said preparations for the rollout have been completed, including a nationwide public awareness campaign conducted throughout March 2026 to educate citizens on the new notes and their introduction into the market.

According to Mushayavanhu, the Reserve Bank, together with commercial banks, has “put in place all the necessary logistics and operational modalities for the seamless rollout” of the new notes. He added that the banknotes have already been distributed across the country “in sufficient quantities to meet anticipated cash demand.”

The new series will be introduced in phases, starting with ZiG10 and ZiG20 notes, along with the introduction of a new ZiG50 denomination. Higher denominations, including ZiG100 and ZiG200, will be released later, depending on demand and prevailing economic conditions.

“The upgraded ZiG banknotes series will be availed in a phased and orderly manner,” Mushayavanhu said.

Existing ZiG banknotes will remain in circulation alongside the new series. The Reserve Bank said the older notes will only be withdrawn gradually as they are returned through the banking system.

The central bank also confirmed that ZiG coins, first introduced in April 2024, will continue circulating to support smaller transactions and ease demand for low denomination notes.

Members of the public will be able to access the new banknotes through normal banking channels, including bank branches, ATMs and HomeLink kiosks. Retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies have been encouraged to offer cashback services, while mobile money operators are expected to resume cash-in and cash-out services in ZiG.

To manage liquidity, the Reserve Bank set withdrawal limits at ZiG10,000 per week for individuals and ZiG100,000 per week for corporate entities.

Mushayavanhu said the central bank remains committed to maintaining stability in the economy through disciplined monetary policy.

“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,” he said.

He urged the public to adopt the new banknotes, adding that Zimbabweans should “embrace and use the upgraded BiG5 ZiG Banknote Series with pride and confidence.”