DRC government to end use of dollars
The Governor of the Central Bank of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, André Wameso, announced that from April 9, 2027, no one will be allowed to pay for any service in dollars or other foreign currencies.
For many years, dollars have been more widely used in the DRC than Congolese francs. This is largely due to the country's currency's devaluation, as instead of carrying loads of banknotes, people prefer to use fewer, more valuable ones.
In 2010, the US dollar was worth 920 Congolese francs, but in 2026, it was worth 2,300 Congolese francs. The Central Bank indicates that it is used by Congolese people for almost 90% of all services, except for paying salaries to government employees.
Governor Wameso announced that next year this will change, as no person, business or financial institution will be allowed to receive dollars or other foreign currencies in hand. Governor Wameso Regarding commercial banks, Wameso explained that they will not be allowed to import foreign currency notes, but will be allowed to receive them through electronic means.
He said, "Starting April 9, 2027, no one will be allowed to provide or pay for services in foreign currencies." In August 2025, Wameso told The Bloomberg newspaper that among the factors slowing down the DRC's economy was its heavy use of foreign currency, mainly due to the country importing more from abroad than it exports.
Wameso pointed out that the Central Bank could have brought about changes aimed at protecting the country's economy but has been overshadowed by other institutions. He called for the bank to be given independence to set and manage monetary policy.
