pulas

Pula is the official currency of Botswana. It is abbreviated as BWP and is typically represented with the symbol P. The pula is subdivided into 100 thebe, with both banknotes and coins in circulation for everyday transactions.

The name pula comes from Setswana and means rain, a resource of great significance in Botswana’s arid environment. This symbolism reflects the country’s cultural association with rainfall and renewal. The currency was introduced in 1976, replacing the South African rand at par as part of Botswana’s monetary modernization following independence.

The Bank of Botswana is the issuing authority and central bank responsible for monetary policy, financial stability, and currency design. It issues the banknotes and coins used in daily commerce and manages the money supply within the framework of its inflation-targeting or price-stability objectives. The subdivision thebe is used for smaller denominations and changes.

In day-to-day use, the pula remains the dominant medium of exchange within Botswana and is widely accepted for all financial transactions. The exchange rate of the pula is determined on the foreign exchange market, with the Bank of Botswana guiding policy to maintain macroeconomic stability. The currency is noted for its relative stability within the region and its role in supporting Botswana’s diversified economy.