Zimbabweans are expressing joy as they begin withdrawing ZiG notes and coins from banks for the first time, seeing it as a potential relief for everyday transactions. Informal traders and commuters, who have long awaited an alternative to electronic payment methods, particularly welcome the physical currency option
In the central business district of Harare, lines grew at most banks this morning as enthusiastic clients tried to get their hands on the fresh money. One of the first people to withdraw ZiG at the CABS First Street Branch, Mr. Lovemore Dliwayo, couldn’t contain his excitement as he came from the bank with the new notes, drawing interest from bystanders eager to have a look.
ALSO READ: Fungai Zvirawa Appointed as CEO of Zimbabwe Music Awards
“I’m happy that the new money is now accessible because we’ve been at the mercy of traders and transporters who have demanded US$1 on every transaction. It will greatly simplify the process of obtaining change,” Mr. Dliwayo said.
A retiree named Mr. Takawira Marambanyika, who also acquired ZiG notes, also expressed his happiness and emphasised the importance of having the nation’s own currency. “The funding appears to be promising and will undoubtedly help with the change issue. “I hope authorities take decisive action to preserve its value,” he said, calling for more efforts to stop illicit money changers’ operations.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe recently declared in a statement that ZiG coins and notes, with denominations ranging from ZiG1 to ZiG200, will progressively go into circulation.
