Why I spend hours painstakingly repairing banknotes

In Gaza, a thriving new business of repairing worn banknotes has emerged due to the financial crisis following a deadly Hamas-led attack on Israel in 2023. With limited access to cash and operational banks, people rely on informal money merchants to exchange digital transfers for physical money, leading to high fees. The Palestine Monetary Authority has introduced e-wallets and payment systems to facilitate transactions, but financial hardships persist, with many struggling to afford basic necessities amidst soaring prices. The economic challenges in Gaza underline the urgent need for sustainable solutions to rebuild and stabilize the region.