In a landmark move aimed at stabilising the volatile economy, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has officially launched its new digital currency, the ‘ZiGital’. The announcement was made in a late-night address by the RBZ Governor on Friday, May 22, 2026, marking a significant shift in the nation’s monetary policy. The ZiGital, which is fully backed by a basket of foreign currencies and precious metals, is intended to curb hyperinflation and build public confidence in the local financial system.
Economists and financial analysts across the region are closely watching the development, with many expressing cautious optimism about its potential impact. The RBZ governor emphasised that strict regulatory frameworks have been put in place to ensure transparency and prevent illicit financial activities associated with digital assets.
Key Players Involved
- Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor: Announced the launch and detailed the policy framework.
- Ministry of Finance: Endorsed the initiative as a critical step towards economic recovery.
- Zimbabwean Citizens: Expected to adopt the new digital currency for daily transactions.
Event Timeline
- Fri, May 22, 2026, 23:00 CAT: Official announcement of the ZiGital digital currency.
- Sat, May 23, 2026, 08:00 CAT: Initial rollout phase begins, with commercial banks integrating the new system.
