The Bank of Zambia (BoZ) has confirmed that old Zambian banknotes will no longer be legal tender after March 31, 2026, completing the transition to the new Heritage Series currency family.
In a public notice issued on January 14, 2026, the central bank stated that the cash exchange period for the old currency will end on that date. From April 1, 2026, only the new series of banknotes and coins will be accepted for transactions and payments.
The Heritage Series, introduced on March 31, 2025, includes six banknotes and six coins. These have been circulating alongside the old notes during the transition period.
This arrangement is provided for under the Bank of Zambia (Withdrawal and Exchange of Currency) Regulations, 2025, a statutory instrument issued by the Minister of Finance and National Planning.
The Bank of Zambia emphasized that April 1, 2026, will mark the full implementation of the new currency system, with old banknotes no longer valid for any transactions.
Members of the public are strongly advised to exchange any remaining old banknotes at designated points before the March 31, 2026 deadline. Exchanges are available free of charge at any commercial bank or NATSAVE branch nationwide.
The central bank urged Zambians not to delay, warning that holding onto old notes beyond the deadline could lead to inconvenience once they are fully withdrawn from circulation.
This final phase ensures a smooth shift to the modernized, more secure Heritage Series, reflecting Zambia’s cultural heritage while enhancing currency integrity. For more details, visit the official Bank of Zambia website or contact your nearest bank branch.
By Rachel Mumba
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