In a move to keep up with constitutional standards, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the release of updated currency notes. The changes, which affect the Ksh.50, Ksh.100, Ksh.200, Ksh.500, and Ksh.1,000 denominations, are designed to enhance security features and reflect the latest official signatures.
According to CBK, these updates enhance the notes previously issued in 2019 and will circulate alongside the existing currency. “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," CBK noted in their statement.
The revamped notes will feature four key updates:
- The signature of the CBK Governor, Dr. Kamau Thugge.
- The signature of the Principal Secretary, National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo.
- The print year, is 2024.
- New security threads with color-changing effects unique to each denomination.
CBK emphasized that the new notes will maintain a distinct tactile quality, with easily identifiable text and texture on the currency. When held up to the light, the watermark of a lion’s head, the text "CBK," and the value of the note will be visible. The security thread on the note will also appear as a continuous line that changes color when tilted, and under Ultra-Violet light, a golden band will reveal the banknote's value.
The rollout of the updated currency notes will start with the Ksh.1,000 denomination, with other denominations to follow in the coming months.
These updates are in compliance with Section 22 of the Central Bank of Kenya Act, which mandates that the characteristics of notes and coins be determined by the Bank in consultation with the Minister, and be notified in the Gazette and other media to ensure public awareness.
This move by CBK is a step toward modernizing the nation's currency while ensuring that it remains secure and easily identifiable for the public.
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