The Central Bank of Kenya has Introduced Updated Banknotes for 2024: A few changes to Note.

Nairobi, Kenya: The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has unveiled an updated series of banknotes starting with the KES 1,000 denomination. These new banknotes incorporate several advanced security features and will be circulated alongside the existing series. Moreover, The changes align with the CBK’s mandate under Article 231 (2) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 22 (2) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act.

Enhanced Security Features for Improved Counterfeit Protection

The new banknotes feature enhanced security measures to combat counterfeiting. Additionally, The CBK has detailed the new attributes to help the public verify the authenticity of the notes. This is through these simple techniques: Feel, Look, and Tilt.

Feel/Gusa:

1. Feel KENYA: The word “Kenya” on the banknote is embossed, providing a distinct tactile sensation.
2. Feel VALUE: The numeric value (1000) also features a raised print for easy recognition.
3. Feel THE EDGE: The edges of the banknotes have ridges that can be felt with the fingers.

Look/Tazama:

1. Watermark: Holding the banknote up to the light reveals a perfect lion’s head, the CBK initials, and the note’s value.
2. Security Thread: The security thread embedded in the note appears as a continuous line when viewed against the light.

Tilt/Pindua:

1. Colour-Changing Security Thread: This thread changes color when the banknote is tilted.
2. Golden Band: Under ultraviolet (UV) light, a golden band shows the note’s value.

These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the banknotes but also ensure that they are difficult to replicate, providing robust security against forgery.

Official Statements and Circulation Plan

In a press release dated August 6, 2024, the CBK confirmed the issuance of new banknotes in denominations of KES 50, KES 100, KES 200, KES 500, and KES 1,000. The Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, Dr. Kamau Thugge, and the Principal Secretary of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, have both appended their signatures to these notes. The banknotes also feature the year of print (2024) and new security threads that display unique color-changing effects for each denomination.

The release of the banknotes will commence with the KES 1,000 note, with other denominations to follow progressively. Importantly, all existing banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the new series.

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Public Awareness and Education Campaign

To ensure that the public is well-informed about the new banknotes and their security features, the CBK has launched an awareness campaign. This initiative includes informational posters, such as the one above, that guide the public on how to authenticate the new notes.

The poster, titled “2024 Kenya Notes Edition,” provides a step-by-step guide on verifying the authenticity of the KES 1,000 note by emphasizing the “Feel, Look, and Tilt” method. This educational effort is crucial in preventing counterfeit circulation and ensuring public confidence in the national currency.

For further details on the updated banknotes, the CBK has made information available on their official website.

In Sum

The introduction of the updated banknotes by the Central Bank of Kenya marks a significant step in enhancing the security and reliability of the Kenyan currency. As these notes begin to circulate, the CBK’s continued efforts in public education and awareness will be pivotal. Thus, ensuring their successful adoption and in maintaining trust in the nation’s monetary system.