Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
"Kwacha" means "dawn" in several Zambian languages, chosen to symbolize a new beginning at independence. The currency was introduced in 1968, replacing the Zambian pound, and was rebased in January 2013 — removing three zeros — to simplify pricing after years of inflation had made everyday transactions unwieldy.
ZMW ⇄ USD Converter
History
Zambia introduced the kwacha in 1968, two years before neighboring countries followed similar decimalization moves, replacing the Zambian pound inherited from the colonial era. Persistent inflation through the following decades eroded its value, prompting the Bank of Zambia to rebase the currency in January 2013 — removing three zeros to create the "rebased kwacha" still used today. As a major copper exporter, Zambia's currency has historically been sensitive to global copper prices and mining sector performance.
Denominations
Zambian kwacha banknotes currently circulate in these denominations:
- 2, 5, 10 kwacha — smaller everyday notes
- 20, 50, 100 kwacha — higher-value notes
Coins are issued in 5, 10, and 50 ngwee, plus a 1 kwacha coin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the currency symbol for the kwacha?
The Zambian kwacha's symbol is ZK. Its ISO 4217 currency code is ZMW.
Why was the kwacha rebased in 2013?
Years of inflation had inflated everyday prices to large numbers. The Bank of Zambia removed three zeros in 2013 to simplify transactions and restore confidence in the currency.
Is the Zambian kwacha the same as the Malawian kwacha?
No — despite the shared name (meaning "dawn" in several Bantu languages), Zambia and Malawi each issue their own separate, non-interchangeable kwacha currency.
Where can I see rates for other African currencies?
Check the full currency directory on the African Currencies homepage, which covers all 54 African countries.