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Tag: Africa currency

  • Seven weakest currencies in Africa in January 2026

    Seven weakest currencies in Africa in January 2026

    Africa’s weakest currencies are assessed by their exchange rates against the United States dollar, offering a snapshot of economic pressure across the continent and highlighting countries grappling with currency fragility.

    These rankings are subject to change, driven by inflation, currency devaluation and economic or political shocks, particularly in countries heavily dependent on imports for essentials such as fuel, food, medicines and industrial machinery.

    However, if current trends of marginal improvement persist, it could ease inflation, boost consumer confidence, and open the door for interest rate cuts by central banks.

    Using the Forbes currency calculator, here are seven African countries with the weakest currencies this month.

    1. São Tomé & Príncipe – The country holds the weakest currency on the continent, with the São Tomé & Príncipe Dobra trading at 22,282 to the US dollar.

    2. Sierra Leone – The Sierra Leonean Leone stands at 20,970 per dollar

    3. Guinea – The Guinean Franc follows with a rate of 8,700 to one US dollar.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Top 10 African countries with largest military aircraft fleet as of January 2026

    4. Madagascar – The Malagasy ariary is the currency of Madagascar with a rate of 4,483 to one US dollar.

    5. Uganda – The Ugandan Shilling trades at 3,541 per dollar, placing the country fifth on the list.

    6. Burundi – The Burundian Franc is valued at 2,938 per US dollar.

    7. Tanzania – The Tanzanian Shilling is exchanging at 2,548 per dollar

  • Five strongest currencies in Africa as of January 2026

    Five strongest currencies in Africa as of January 2026

    The strongest currencies in Africa in 2026 are more than just numbers on a chart, they reflect stable economies, sound monetary policies, and growing investor confidence.

    Several African countries have maintained strong currencies against the U.S. dollar, reflecting various degrees of fiscal discipline, monetary policy effectiveness, and economic structure.

    Currency strength remains a vital indicator of a country’s economic stability and overall financial health.

    According to the Forbes currency calculator, the following are the five strongest African currencies as of January 2026 against the US Dollar.

    1. Tunisia – Tunisian Dinar (TND)

    Exchange Rate: 2.86 TND per USD
    Tunisia continues to lead as the African country with the strongest currency. The Tunisian Dinar’s strength is largely supported by strict exchange control measures and inflation management, even amid ongoing political and economic challenges.

    2. Libya – Libyan Dinar (LYD)

    Exchange Rate: 6.31 LYD per USD
    Despite years of political unrest, the Libyan Dinar remains notably strong. This resilience is primarily due to Libya’s abundant oil reserves, which generate substantial foreign exchange revenue.

    3. Morocco – Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

    Exchange Rate: 9.01 MAD per USD
    The Moroccan Dirham benefits from the country’s stable macroeconomic policies, economic diversification, and prudent monetary governance. Morocco’s growing appeal to foreign investors, especially in the renewable energy sector, also bolsters its currency.

    Read Also: FG approves ₦1 trillion metro rail service for Kano

    4. Ghana – Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

    Exchange Rate: 10.84 GHS per USD
    While the Ghanaian Cedi has experienced volatility, recent economic reforms and support from the IMF have introduced a measure of stability. Government initiatives to rein in inflation and manage public debt are beginning to yield positive outcomes.

    5. Botswana – Botswana Pula (BWP)

    Exchange Rate: 13.05 BWP per USD
    The Botswana Pula stands out as one of the strongest currencies in Sub-Saharan Africa. Sound governance, effective fiscal policies, and a balanced reliance on diamond exports have helped maintain its strength.