Currencies/Congo Republic makuta

Introduction

The makuta (singular: likuta) was a fractional currency unit used in the Republic of Zaire, formerly the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and later known as the Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa). It served as a subdivision of the zaire, which was the official currency between 1967 and 1997.

History

The makuta was introduced in 1967 when the zaire replaced the Congolese franc at the rate of 1 zaire = 1,000 francs. The new monetary system divided the zaire into 100 makuta, and each makuta into 100 sengi.

The reform was part of President Mobutu Sese Seko’s effort to nationalize and modernize the economy, introducing African terminology to replace colonial currency names. However, rising inflation throughout the 1970s and 1980s quickly diminished the value of smaller units like the makuta.

By the early 1990s, only the zaire denominations remained in circulation, and in 1998, the country reintroduced the Congolese franc, officially ending the use of the makuta.

Coins

Makuta coins were first issued in 1967, including denominations of 1 likuta, 5 makuta, and 10 sengi. These early issues were minted in copper-nickel, featuring designs such as the leopard’s head, the national star emblem, and the inscription République du Zaïre.

Subsequent issues retained similar national symbols, emphasizing unity and sovereignty. Due to persistent inflation, makuta coins lost their purchasing power and were eventually withdrawn from use, replaced by higher-value zaire coins. Today, they are primarily of historical and numismatic interest.

Banknotes

Early banknotes denominated in 10, 20, and 50 makuta were introduced in 1967 alongside the initial zaire notes. These notes typically displayed national motifs, including portraits of President Mobutu and images symbolizing progress and independence.

By the 1970s, the makuta denominations had become obsolete due to severe devaluation, and all subsequent note issues were printed in larger zaire values, effectively removing makuta notes from circulation.

Currency

Under the Zairean system:

1 zaire = 100 makuta

1 makuta = 100 sengi

The makuta and sengi were intended as fractional units but lost relevance as inflation rendered them impractical for daily transactions. By the late 20th century, only zaire notes and coins remained in use.

Legacy

The makuta reflects a transitional period in the monetary history of the Congo Republic, representing both an attempt at national identity through localized currency names and the economic challenges faced under prolonged inflation. Surviving makuta coins and notes are now rare collectible items that illustrate the evolution of post-colonial African currencies.