Zimbabwean businesses and resellers have started accepting only United States Dollars (USD) for certain locally produced commodities. This shift follows issues caused by the Zimbabwean local currency, “Zimbabwean Gold,” commonly known as Zig. Many commodities in major supermarkets are now exclusively sold in USD.
This change has sparked significant uproar in the business sector, as many workers receive their wages in Zig, which has been rapidly losing value.
Popular journalist Hopewell Chinonono took to social media to criticize the Zimbabwean government, stating that it has rejected its own currency from the start for transactions such as passport applications, customs duties, and fuel. “When a government rejects its own currency, it is irrational for any business to have confidence in it,” he remarked.
Chinonono also criticized the opposition party for their silence during this crisis, calling their inaction embarrassing. As Zig’s value continues to drop, there is growing hope that the government will soon find a solution for the people.