By Dorothy Musyoka
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the introduction of a new series of banknotes.
This move is part of the CBK’s ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the Kenyan currency and ensure public confidence in the nation’s monetary system.
The new banknotes will feature prominent Kenyan landmarks, cultural symbols, and notable figures to celebrate the nation’s heritage.
The design elements are not only aesthetically pleasing but also incorporate state-of-the-art security measures.
In a dispatch by the CBK, each denomination will feature a unique watermark that is visible when held up to the light.
“The bank has made some changes to the denomination of the Kenyan Currency banknotes. The changes affect the fifty shillings (KES 50), one hundred shillings (KES 100), two hundred shillings (KES 200), five hundred shillings (KES 500) and one thousand shillings (KES 1000),” read the statement.
According to the statement the new notes will include the signature of Dr.Kamau Thugge who is the Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya.signature of the Principal Secretary, National Treasury Chris Kiptoo, the year of print 2024 and new security threads with colour changing effects that are specific to each denomination.
The CBK has assured the public that the current banknotes will remain legal tender and can be used alongside the new notes.
“The rest of the features remain the same as those of the series issued in 2019.All banknotes currently in circulation remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the released banknote,” stated CBK.
A gradual phase-out of the old banknotes will be managed to ensure minimal disruption to daily transactions.
“Release of the banknotes will commence with KES 1,000, while the other denominations will progressively follow in the coming months,” CBK added.
The new general banknotes were launched during the 2019 Madaraka Day celebrations, by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.