08/04/2020: COVID-19 impact on currency circulation
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, circulation of nakfa banknotes decreased as people relied more on digital transactions.
25/02/2019: Introduction of new nakfa banknotes
Eritrea introduced new banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 nakfa.
30/10/2018: Currency devaluation
Eritrea devalued the nakfa by 14%, reducing its official exchange rate to 1 USD = 15 ERN.
02/05/2016: Introduction of the new Lesotho loti coins
New coins with updated designs and improved durability were introduced to replace the older ones and ensure efficient circulation of the Lesotho loti currency.
22/01/2015: Dollarization policy imposed
Eritrea imposed a dollarization policy, making the US dollar the predominant currency for most transactions.
16/10/2012: Issuance of commemorative banknotes
Commemorative banknotes were issued on the occasion of Lesotho's 46th Independence Day, celebrating the country's cultural heritage and achievements.
02/06/2008: Establishment of the Lesotho Electronic Funds Transfer System
The Lesotho Electronic Funds Transfer System (LETS) was established, enabling secure and efficient electronic transactions, including online banking and interbank transfers.
14/11/2005: Currency redenomination
The Eritrean nakfa underwent a redenomination where old nakfa notes were replaced with new nakfa notes in a ratio of 1:1,000.
21/02/2000: Launch of the Lesotho national payment system
The Lesotho national payment system was launched, facilitating seamless electronic funds transfer and promoting financial inclusivity in the country.
25/09/1998: Introduction of the new Lesotho loti banknotes
New banknotes featuring enhanced security features and updated designs were introduced to combat counterfeiting and improve the integrity of the currency.
08/11/1997: Introduction of the Eritrean nakfa
The Eritrean nakfa was introduced as the official currency of Eritrea, replacing the Ethiopian birr.
08/11/1997: Currency exchange rate fixed
The Eritrean nakfa was fixed at an exchange rate of 1 USD = 10 ERN.
20/01/1986: Adoption of the Central Bank of Lesotho Act
The Central Bank of Lesotho Act was adopted, providing the legal framework for the regulation and control of the Lesotho loti and monetary policy.
01/10/1980: Introduction of the Lesotho loti
The Lesotho loti was introduced as the official currency of Lesotho to replace the South African rand and establish monetary independence.