The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced changes to the Kenyan currency banknotes, in line with its mandate to issue currency as outlined in Article 231 (2) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 22 (2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.
These changes impact the fifty shillings (Ksh.50), one hundred shillings (Ksh.100), two hundred shillings (Ksh.200), five hundred shillings (Ksh.500), and one thousand shillings (Ksh.1,000) banknotes.
New Features on Banknotes
The updated banknotes will bear several key features:
– The signature of the Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, Dr. Kamau Thugge
– The signature of the Principal Secretary, National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo
– The year of print, 2024
– New security threads with color-changing effects specific to each denomination
According to the CBK, these enhancements aim to improve the security and authenticity of the currency while maintaining the familiarity of the previous series.
Continuity and Circulation
The CBK has assured the public that all banknotes currently in circulation will remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the newly released notes.
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“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 banknotes,” said CBK.
The rollout of the new banknotes will begin with the Ksh.1,000 denomination, with the other denominations to follow progressively in the coming months.
The rest of the design and features of the new banknotes will remain consistent with those issued in 2019, ensuring a smooth transition for the public and businesses.
Security and Trust
The introduction of new security threads with color-changing effects is linked to combating counterfeiting and ensuring the trust and integrity of the Kenyan currency.
These advanced security features are designed to make it easier for the public to verify the authenticity of the banknotes and protect against fraudulent activities.
