13/05/2020: Introduction of New Thousand Kwacha Banknotes
Malawi introduced new banknotes with higher denominations to address issues of inflation and to streamline transactions in a cash-based economy.
01/10/2018: Introduction of New Coins
Botswana introduces a new series of coins, featuring updated designs and enhanced durability.
01/05/2016: Currency Floatation
The Malawian government allowed the kwacha to float freely against other currencies, leading to a significant depreciation of the currency.
01/08/2014: Currency Redenomination
Botswana redenominates the Pula, dividing it into 1000 Thebe to simplify calculations and reduce the use of smaller denominations.
07/08/2012: Introduction of New Kwacha Coins
Malawi introduced new coins to replace smaller denominations of the kwacha banknotes, facilitating transactions and reducing the cost of producing money.
05/10/2009: Introduction of New Banknotes
Botswana introduces a new series of banknotes, featuring improved security features and updated designs.
23/08/2005: Currency Devaluation
Botswana allows the Pula to float freely against other currencies, resulting in a devaluation of approximately 12%.
10/04/2000: Introduction of New Kwacha Banknotes
Malawi introduced new banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting and to modernize the currency.
14/06/1994: Malawi's First Multiparty Democratic Elections
Malawi held its first multiparty democratic elections, leading to a political and economic transition which affected the value of the kwacha.
31/12/1980: Currency Board Established
The Bank of Botswana establishes a Currency Board, which manages the issuance and distribution of the Pula.
01/09/1979: First Devaluation of the Kwacha
The Malawian government devalued the kwacha by 30% in response to economic challenges and to promote exports.
17/10/1978: Currency Pegged to a Basket
Botswana pegs the Pula to a basket of currencies, including the South African Rand, British Pound, and US Dollar.
14/09/1976: Introduction of the Pula
Botswana replaces the South African Rand with its own currency, the Pula, at a 1:1 exchange rate.
06/07/1971: Introduction of the Malawian Kwacha
The Malawian Kwacha (MWK) was introduced as the official currency of Malawi, replacing the Malawian pound at a rate of 2 kwacha = 1 pound.