The current exchange rate is 600 RwF to the US dollar. The largest denomination in circulation is the 5000 Franc note. So when transferring money from our US account to our Rwandan account, the figures are in the millions. A couple of thousand US dollars translates to millionaire status here! Unfortunately, the cost of living is exceedingly high and so even though we’re “millionaires” we find it difficult to purchase $12 boxes of Kellog’s Cornflakes!
Since we pay virtually everything in cash here, we’ve got to take out considerable amounts when it’s time to pay the staff, lunch bills, ballet fees or even purchase petrol (about $6.80 /gallon) and electricity. Frequently, the bank is devoid of the 5000 Franc note as was the case today. We were given our withdrawal, about $800 US, in 2000 Franc bills. Needless to say, getting that amount of cash in what essentially amounts to $2 bills represents quite a wad. Can’t help but feel like we’re akin to bank robbers walking out with huge bundles of currency. Can’t exactly stuff the below pictured bundles in one’s pockets either. It’s even difficult enough to get it into my purse!
Well millionaire status will be short-lived, we’re now on the backside of this puppy and are down in the teens on the number of weeks we have left in country. We’re looking forward to buying Cheerios in the huge family size as one of the first things we do upon our return! Oh and carrying far less cash on our person….
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