Zim artists, retailers rally behind the new ZiG currency

Staff Reporter

Local Zimbabwean artists have stepped into the recording studios, blending their melodious voices and influential lyrics to support the transition to the country’s new currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG).

 Among these artists, prominent local reggae musician Ras Caleb, born Caleb Tareka, is leading the charge with his new hit, "ZiG Mari," produced by the acclaimed Chillspot Records.

Since its release yesterday, "ZiG Mari" has garnered over 6,000 views on YouTube, resonating with many Zimbabweans for its hopeful message regarding the ZiG currency's introduction.

Ras Caleb's lyrics, "ZiG rine hope so the future is better," have become a rallying cry, encouraging citizens to embrace the new monetary system with optimism.

The introduction of the ZiG currency comes as part of a broader initiative by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) to stabilise the national economy and foster growth.

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) president, Denford Mutashu, expressed strong support for this transition.

"As CZR, we have embraced the new ZiG currency, as announced by the RBZ. One of the significant steps we have taken is discontinuing the use of the old Zimbabwe dollar. During this transitional period, we are accepting the US dollar. It has been a busy weekend due to the reconfiguration of our systems, and we hope to complete this process within the RBZ's set timelines," Mutashu stated.

The transition has indeed been a mammoth task, with numerous financial institutions and payment system providers working tirelessly since last Friday to convert their systems.

These efforts aim to ensure a smooth cessation of transactions in the Zimbabwe dollar, paving the way for the full adoption of the ZiG.

Economist Getrude Mushonga said that the united front presented by Zimbabwe’s artists and retailers in supporting the ZiG currency heralds a new era of hope and prosperity.

“With voices raised in song and businesses swiftly adapting, the nation is collectively stepping into a future envisioned to be brighter and more stable, all under the banner of the ZiG currency,” said Mushonga.

Meanwhile, major companies, including telecommunications giants Econet and NetOne, have announced successful transitions, having reconfigured their various product platforms to support transactions in the new ZiG currency.