Ban on foreign currency on the island?

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because there's some fresh news coming straight outta the Bank of Tanzania! They've dropped a public notice (you can see it for yourself below) and it's all about the Tanzanian Shilling, baby!

Now, let's break it down in a way that makes sense, because sometimes these official announcements can feel like reading ancient Swahili when you just want the juicy bits.

So, what's the buzz? Well, the government is making a big push for everyone within Tanzania to use the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) for pretty much everything. And honestly? Totally get it. We're not strolling around in the US of A or sipping espresso in Italy. This is Tanzania, and the TZS is our home currency. Makes perfect sense when you think about it.

Think about your own life, right? Your salary probably hits your account in TZS. Rent? TZS. That delicious plate of chipsi mayai? Almost certainly TZS. So why wouldn't the government want transactions happening in the same currency? It keeps things simpler, more stable, and well, it's our money! Just like back in my home country, they prefer you pay in the local moolah, and there's nothing weird about that at all.

Now, before you start panicking and hoarding all your Tanzanian shillings (though having some on hand is always a good idea 😉), let's be clear: this doesn't mean your Euros or US dollars are suddenly worthless here. You'll still be able to use them, especially at places catering to tourists. Think of it more like this: the government is gently (or maybe not so gently?) nudging everyone towards using TZS.

But here's the kicker, and something I've been banging on about in my other posts about cash and ATMs (seriously, go check them out if you haven't! You'll thank me later): you've always been at a slight disadvantage when using foreign currencies for local transactions. Exchange rates, fees... it all adds up, right? So, in a way, this push towards the TZS just reinforces what we already knew – sticking with the local currency often saves you a bit of cash in the long run.

And here's a little insider tidbit for you all: there's some serious chatter going on within the government about making exceptions to these new regulations, especially when it comes to the tourism sector. I've personally seen reports suggesting that the tourism folks have been making a strong case (and maybe even got some nods of approval!) for a more flexible approach. Tourism is a big deal here, and they know it.

So, my prediction? Don't be surprised if we see these regulations "toned down" a bit in the near future, specifically for hotels, tour operators, and all those amazing places that cater to us lucky visitors.

Bottom line? While the Tanzanian government is understandably keen on boosting the use of the TZS, it's unlikely your foreign currency will become completely useless. Just be aware that the tide is turning, and embracing the local shilling is probably going to be the most wallet-friendly way to go.

Stay tuned for more updates, and in the meantime, maybe start practicing your Swahili numbers for when you're counting out those Tanzanian shillings! 😉

Karibu Zanzibar!