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.
29/06/2018: East African Community Currency Integration
Burundi joins the East African Community (EAC) currency integration, paving the way for a future unified currency within the region.
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.
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.
17/10/2011: Introduction of New Banknotes
New banknotes with enhanced security features and updated designs are introduced in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 Francs.
30/06/2003: Second Currency Revaluation
The Burundian Franc undergoes another significant devaluation as part of the second currency revaluation program.
10/04/2000: Introduction of New Kwacha Banknotes
Malawi introduced new banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting and to modernize the currency.
30/04/1995: Printing of Banknotes
The first locally printed banknotes, issued in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 Francs, are circulated.
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.
20/10/1990: Introduction of New Coins
New coins are introduced in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 Francs.
22/09/1985: First Currency Revaluation
The Burundian Franc is significantly devalued as part of a currency revaluation program.
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.
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.
30/06/1960: Independence from Belgium
Burundi gains independence from Belgium, establishing the Burundian Franc as its official currency.