RBZ Introduces ZiG 100 and 200 Notes as Battle for Public Trust Continues

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has started introducing higher-denomination ZiG banknotes, rolling out ZiG 100 and ZiG 200 notes in an effort to make everyday transactions more convenient.

RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu said the rollout is being done in phases, following earlier concerns about the availability and durability of the first series of ZiG notes.

But many Zimbabweans remain cautious about holding the local currency, shaped by years of sudden changes to the country's monetary system. People still worry whether the new notes will hold their value and physically last in wallets and cash registers.

The Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) became the country’s official currency on April 8, 2024. It was introduced as an asset-backed currency, supported by foreign currency reserves and gold.

What happens next: The central bank is expected to continue distributing the new notes through the banking system, while the market tests whether larger denominations improve cash flow without triggering fresh instability.