The Bank of Zambia issued a public notice reminding the public that the cash exchange period for old banknotes ends on 31 March 2026 following the launch of a new currency family. From 1 April 2026, old banknotes will cease to be legal tender and will no longer be valid for transactions or accepted for exchange with the new series. The new currency family, introduced on 31 March 2025, comprises six banknotes and six coins and has been circulating alongside the old currency during the exchange window. Old banknotes can be exchanged at designated cash exchange points, including any commercial bank or NATSAVE branch nationwide, at the same value, consistent with the Bank of Zambia (Withdrawal and Exchange of Currency) Regulations, 2025 (Statutory Instrument No. 9 of 2025).
Bank of Zambia 2026-01-14
Bank of Zambia confirms cash exchange deadline for old banknotes and legal tender status ends on 1 April 2026
The Bank of Zambia announced that the cash exchange period for old banknotes will end on 31 March 2026, after which they will no longer be legal tender, following the introduction of a new currency family on 31 March 2025. Old banknotes can be exchanged at designated points, including commercial banks and NATSAVE branches, in accordance with the Bank of Zambia (Withdrawal and Exchange of Currency) Regulations, 2025.