Central Bank Announces Release of Updated Banknotes with Enhanced Security Features
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has officially announced the release of updated banknotes, which will feature the signature of the Treasury Principal Secretary (PS) and a color-changing security thread among other advanced security enhancements. This move is part of the CBK’s ongoing efforts to combat counterfeiting and enhance the integrity of the nation’s currency.
In a statement released earlier today, the CBK Governor, Dr. Patrick Njoroge, highlighted the importance of these new features in maintaining the trust and confidence of the public in the country’s currency. “The updated banknotes are designed to be more secure and easier for the public to verify,” said Dr. Njoroge. “These features are crucial in our fight against counterfeiting and in ensuring the continued stability of our financial system.”
The inclusion of the Treasury PS’s signature is a significant addition, underscoring the close collaboration between the CBK and the Treasury in managing the country’s financial affairs. Dr. Njoroge noted, “The Treasury PS’s signature on our banknotes is a symbol of the integrity and accountability in our financial management. It reaffirms the government’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.”
Among the standout features of the new banknotes is the color-changing security thread, which is designed to provide an easy and quick way for individuals and businesses to verify the authenticity of the notes. When tilted, the thread will shift colors, a feature that is difficult for counterfeiters to replicate. “The color-changing thread is a sophisticated security measure that will help curb the circulation of counterfeit money,” explained Dr. Njoroge. “We are confident that these new notes will significantly reduce incidents of forgery.”
The CBK has also introduced other security features, including a watermark of the national symbol, micro-printing, and enhanced intaglio printing, which adds a tactile element to the notes. These measures are intended to make the banknotes more resilient against counterfeiting attempts and easier for the visually impaired to identify. “Our updated banknotes incorporate multiple layers of security, making them among the most secure in the world,” Dr. Njoroge added.
In preparation for the rollout, the CBK has initiated a nationwide awareness campaign to educate the public on how to identify and use the new banknotes. Information materials and training sessions are being provided to banks, businesses, and the general public to ensure a smooth transition. Dr. Njoroge emphasized, “Public awareness is key to the success of this initiative. We are committed to ensuring that every Kenyan is informed about the new features and how to use them.”
The new banknotes will be gradually introduced into circulation over the coming months. The CBK assures the public that the existing banknotes will remain legal tender and will be phased out in a manner that minimizes inconvenience to the public. “We encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the new notes and to use them confidently,” concluded Dr. Njoroge. “Together, we can safeguard the integrity of our currency and our economy.”
