As 2025 reaches its midpoint, several African nations continue to grapple with the tough reality of currency devaluation. Despite global economic shifts and efforts at stabilization, weak currencies remain a significant challenge for many of these countries—fueling inflation, raising the cost of imports, and reducing purchasing power for millions of citizens.
According to the Forbes Currency Calculator, last updated on June 23, 2025, these are the ten African countries with the weakest currencies relative to the U.S. dollar.
💱 Understanding Currency Weakness
A weak national currency often triggers a domino effect on a country’s economy—leading to increased prices of imported goods such as food, fuel, medicine, and industrial equipment. It can also reduce foreign investment, especially when concerns about economic mismanagement arise.
However, there’s a silver lining. Some of these countries are beginning to show early signs of recovery, thanks to stronger exports, stricter monetary policies, and support from international funding bodies. Even modest gains in currency strength can alleviate inflation, boost consumer confidence, and offer room for central banks to lower interest rates—encouraging domestic growth.
📉 Africa’s 10 Weakest Currencies in June 2025
Here is the top 10 list of African currencies with the lowest value per U.S. dollar:
| Rank | Country | Currency | Value per US$ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | São Tomé & Príncipe | São Tomé & Príncipe Dobra | 22,281.80 |
| 2 | Sierra Leone | Sierra Leonean Leone | 20,969.50 |
| 3 | Guinea | Guinean Franc | 8,657.48 |
| 4 | Uganda | Ugandan Shilling | 3,605.57 |
| 5 | Burundi | Burundian Franc | 2,975.85 |
| 6 | Democratic Republic of Congo | Congolese Franc | 2,905.28 |
| 7 | Tanzania | Tanzanian Shilling | 2,653.06 |
| 8 | Malawi | Malawian Kwacha | 1,732.71 |
| 9 | Nigeria | Nigerian Naira | 1,553.68 |
| 10 | Rwanda | Rwandan Franc | 1,448.29 |
📊 Notable Currency Movements
Compared to last month, the currencies of Nigeria, Malawi, Burundi, Tanzania, DRC, Uganda, and Guinea showed slight improvements in value, reflecting cautious optimism among market watchers. However, the currency values of São Tomé & Príncipe and Sierra Leone remained unchanged, retaining their positions at the top of the weakest currencies list.
🔍 What This Means for African Economies
Weak currencies can strain already fragile economies, especially those reliant on imports. However, when these currencies start to rebound—even modestly—it can ease inflation and signal improved investor sentiment.
Take Nigeria, for example: if the naira continues to strengthen, it could help stabilize prices of basic goods, reduce import costs, and boost confidence in local markets. The same applies to the Ethiopian birr and others facing similar pressures.
📢 Final Thoughts
While currency devaluation remains a harsh reality for some African nations, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. With consistent economic reforms, strategic trade policies, and international support, some of these countries may soon flip the script—transforming today’s weaknesses into tomorrow’s strength.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor currency trends and their impact across Africa.
