Currency strength is a key indicator of a nation’s economic health. When a currency is weak — meaning it takes many units of that currency to buy one US dollar — it often reflects inflation, limited foreign exchange reserves, trade deficits, or broader fiscal challenges.
Several economic patterns help explain why these currencies trade at low exchange rates such as high import dependence, limited export diversity, inflation and monetary policy, political and structural challenges.
This article looks at the 10 weakest African currencies as of early 2026 based on how many units equal 1 USD, drawing on recent exchange rate data.
1. São Tomé & Príncipe Dobra (STN)
22,282 Dobra = 1 USD
The São Tomé & Príncipe dobra tops the list as the weakest currency in Africa. The island nation’s small economy and high import costs contribute to its low valuation.
2. Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL)
20,970 Leone = 1 USD
Despite redenomination attempts, the leone remains significantly weak, reflecting ongoing inflation and economic pressures.
3. Guinean Franc (GNF)
8,700 Franc = 1 USD
Guinea’s currency is another of Africa’s most devalued, influenced by political instability and limited export diversity.
4. Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
4,483 Ariary = 1 USD
Madagascar’s currency reflects the challenges of a largely import-dependent economy with ongoing fiscal constraints.
5. Ugandan Shilling (UGX)
3,541 Shillings = 1 USD
The Ugandan shilling remains weak against the dollar, influenced by trade imbalances and reliance on imports despite domestic growth spending.
6. Burundian Franc (BIF)
2,938 Francs = 1 USD
Burundi’s currency remains low due to limited exports and narrow foreign income streams.
7. Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
2,548 Shillings = 1 USD
Inflation and external trade gaps have kept Tanzania’s shilling among Africa’s weakest.
8. Congolese Franc (CDF)
2,279 Francs = 1 USD
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s franc remains weak despite the country’s abundant mineral resources, due in part to political risk and governance challenges.
9. Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
1,720 Kwacha = 1 USD
Malawi’s kwacha remains low in value, pressured by forex shortages and constraints on foreign earnings.
10. Rwandan Franc (RWF)
1,447 Francs = 1 USD
The Rwandan franc rounds out the top ten weakest currencies in early 2026, impacted by trade imbalances and limited export diversity.
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