ZMW · ZMW
Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
The Zambian kwacha (ZMW) is the official currency of Zambia, issued by the Bank of Zambia. It was introduced in 1968, replacing the Zambian pound.
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ZMW · Zambian Kwacha
Zambian Kwacha (ZMW): Overview and History
The Zambian kwacha (ZMW) is the official currency of Zambia, a landlocked country in Southern Africa. It is issued and regulated by the Bank of Zambia, the nation's central bank. The currency was introduced in 1968, replacing the Zambian pound at a rate of 2 kwacha per pound. The name 'kwacha' derives from the Nyanja word for 'dawn', symbolizing the country's emergence as an independent nation.
The kwacha is subdivided into 100 ngwee, although due to inflation, ngwee coins are rarely used in everyday transactions. The currency has undergone several redenominations, the most recent in 2013, when 1,000 old kwacha were exchanged for 1 new kwacha. This move aimed to simplify transactions and restore confidence in the currency. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 kwacha, while coins are available in 1, 5, and 10 kwacha, as well as smaller ngwee denominations.
The value of the kwacha is influenced by various factors, including copper prices, as Zambia is a major copper producer, as well as agricultural output and global economic conditions. The Bank of Zambia manages monetary policy to maintain price stability and support economic growth. For those interested in the currency, it is important to note that exchange rates fluctuate and should be checked with authorized dealers for current values.
- Code
- ZMW
- Symbol
- ZMW
- Current rate
- USD / ZMW
Currency information
Last updated · 8/7/2026
The Zambian kwacha was introduced on January 1, 2013, replacing the old kwacha at a rate of 1 new kwacha = 1000 old kwacha.
- Official name
- Zambian Kwacha
- Legal tender status
- Legal tender in Zambia
- Decimal places
- 2
- Minor unit
- Ngwee · 1 ZMW = 100 Ngwee
- Countries
- Zambia
- Issuing authority
- Bank of Zambia
- Central bank
- Bank of Zambia · Official website
- Exchange-rate regime
- Floating
Common banknotes
K2 · K5 · K10 · K20 · K50 · K100
Common coins
5 ngwee · 10 ngwee · 50 ngwee · K1 · K2
Also known as
ZMK (old code) · Zambian Kwacha · ZMW · K
Practical notes
- The new kwacha was introduced in 2013 with three zeros removed.
- The currency is issued by the Bank of Zambia.
Zambian Kwacha questions
What is the ZMW exchange rate?
The displayed rate is the latest available reference rate for USD/ZMW. It can change throughout the day.
How can I convert ZMW online?
Use the converter above to calculate indicative amounts between ZMW and the other supported currencies.