Section
Currencies & Forex
The CFA franc, the naira, the rand, the cedi and the shilling — rates, the decisions behind them, and what a move means for anyone importing, exporting or investing across a border.
The numbers
| Pair | Rate | Change | % | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XAF/USD | 612.40 | up +2.10 | +0.34% | BEAC |
| XOF/USD | 612.40 | up +2.10 | +0.34% | BCEAO |
| NGN/USD | 1,590 | down -12 | -0.75% | CBN |
| ZAR/USD | 18.42 | down -0.08 | -0.43% | SARB |
| GHS/USD | 15.80 | up +0.12 | +0.76% | BOG |
| KES/USD | 129.40 | down -0.60 | -0.46% | CBK |
| ETB/USD | 57.80 | up +0.40 | +0.69% | NBE |
| TZS/USD | 2,680 | up +10 | +0.37% | BoT |
Analysis
African Forex Watch: Naira Stabilises, Rand Under Pressure, Shilling Steady
African currencies showed divergent trends in early August, with the Nigerian naira stabilising, the South African rand facing pressure and the Kenyan shilling remaining relatively steady. Here's what the latest currency movements mean for businesses, trade and investors across Africa.
Central Bank & Inflation Watch: Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya Hold Interest Rates Steady
Africa's three largest central banks kept interest rates unchanged as policymakers balanced inflation risks against economic growth. Discover how the latest decisions from Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya could shape markets, currencies and business activity.
African Forex Watch: Naira Stabilises, Rand Weakens, Kenyan Shilling Holds Firm
African currencies posted mixed performances in early August 2026 as Nigeria's naira remained stable, South Africa's rand weakened following the SARB's rate decision, and Kenya's shilling continued to trade steadily. Here's what the latest FX movements mean for businesses, investors, and regional trade.
BEAC Rate Decision: What Central Africa's Monetary Policy Means for Borrowing, Investment and the FCFA
The Bank of Central African States sets monetary policy for six CEMAC nations. Its decisions reach corporate borrowing costs, government financing and the investment climate across a region of roughly 55 million people.
The Nigerian Naira at 1,590: Currency Depreciation, Inflation and What Investors Need to Know
The naira has depreciated substantially since the June 2023 liberalisation. At roughly 1,590 to the dollar, the trajectory matters for anyone doing business in or with Africa's largest economy.