The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has taken decisive steps to improve the availability and distribution of ZiG cash nationwide, addressing longstanding challenges in remote areas and strengthening financial inclusion. n. Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu’s November 1, 2026 statement emphasized efficient cash management and confidence in the local currency. The BiG5-ZiG banknote series and public awareness campaign have been key to this progress, enhancing the currency’s rollout and accessibility nationwide.
With ZiG703 million in circulation against a deposit base of ZiG32 billion, representing 2.2% of deposits, the RBZ is working to optimize cash flow toward the optimal 3% benchmark. The banking network, comprising 428 branches across ten provinces, holds ZiG195.1 million in readily accessible cash, with Harare accounting for 54.2% of branch-network cash holdings.
To ensure equitable access, the RBZ has implemented a real-time Cash Distribution and Availability System (CDAS), enabling timely, data-driven allocation and redistribution decisions. The system will continue to monitor availability, access and redistribution signals nationwide.
Immediate priorities include moving cash from Central Cash Depots to branches and ATMs on defined replenishment cycles, prioritizing underserved locations, and leveraging real-time signals to rebalance supply and demand. The RBZ has also reintroduced smaller ZiG denominations in the form of ZiG1, ZiG2 and ZiG5 coins to facilitate change and improve transaction convenience.
Governor Dr. J. Mushayavanhu reaffirmed the RBZ’s commitment to efficient cash allocation and distribution, with sufficient cash reserves projected until 2030. As the RBZ continues to work closely with banking institutions, Zimbabweans can expect improved and more equitable access to ZiG cash, driving economic activity and growth.
These interventions are firmly aligned to the broader fiscal policy framework and the Government’s long-term development agenda. By strengthening currency availability, promoting financial inclusion and restoring public confidence in the domestic currency, the RBZ’s cash management reforms directly support Vision 2030’s objective of achieving an upper-middle-income economy anchored on macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth. They also advance National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) priorities on inclusive growth, modernization of payment systems, and equitable service delivery, ensuring that liquidity reaches productive sectors and marginalized communities in support of broad-based economic transformation.
