Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
STAKEHOLDERS in Mashonaland Central have welcomed measures by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) aimed at strengthening market confidence ahead of the rollout of upgraded ZiG banknotes next month.
A cross-section of representatives from the mining and manufacturing sectors, small and medium enterprises, and economic groups attended an RBZ awareness campaign in Bindura, where they commended the central bank for engaging communities at grassroots level.
“We feel this is a first for the RBZ to come to the grassroots here in Bindura and it is a welcome move. We feel confident of these moves, and they should continue.
“They came and clarified that these new notes are not a new currency, so they cleared the confusion and misconception that we were hearing through the grapevine.
“I want the RBZ financial intelligence unit to be more visible and deal with any malpractices; they should be decentralised and not just focus on Harare. How can people report to them if they don’t know where they are?” representatives said.
Provincial leadership has called for the message on the upgraded ZiG notes to be cascaded to all districts and wards to avoid misinformation.
“As leaders, we carry a responsibility to ensure we cascade down information. Let’s ensure this message we hear today reaches every ward, village and every household,” Mashonaland Central Permanent Secretary for State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mr Timothy Meregere said.
RBZ Director Economic Research, Modelling and Policy, Dr Nebson Mupunga read the central bank governor’s speech, assuring stakeholders that stability of the ZiG remains a priority.
“This project is meant to enhance the durability, quality and design of the ZiG bank notes,” Dr Mupunga said.
The RBZ has reiterated its commitment to maintaining single-digit inflation and preserving currency stability, which has prevailed since the introduction of the ZiG in 2024.
