The security features to look out for in new banknotes
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) is rolling out updated banknotes starting with the Kes1,000 note complete with enhanced security features to safeguard against counterfeiting.
Among the most notable updates will be the inclusion of signatures from both the CBK Governor, Dr. Kamau Thugge, and the National Treasury PS, Dr. Chris Kiptoo.
Additionally, the new notes will be printed with the year 2024 and will incorporate advanced security threads that display colour-changing effects when tilted.
Key security features have been embedded into the new banknotes to help users authenticate them. For instance, the name “Kenya” and the note’s value are now tactile, allowing users to feel these details by touch.
When held up to the light, a watermark featuring a lion’s head, the text “CBK,” and the note’s value will be visible from both sides.
The security thread will appear as a continuous line under light, and each denomination will feature a colour-changing thread that becomes apparent when the note is tilted. Additionally, a golden band indicating the note’s value will be visible under ultraviolet light.
These security enhancements will apply across all banknote denominations, that is, Kes50, Kes100, Kes200, Kes500, and Kes1,000. Despite these updates, the CBK has confirmed that the overall design of the notes will remain consistent with the 2019 series.
New security features to in new banknotes
Importantly, existing banknotes will continue to be legal tender and will circulate alongside the newly issued ones. CBK said the rollout of the new banknotes will start with the Ksh1,000 denomination, with other denominations to be introduced gradually over the coming months.
In ensuring the quality and security of the new banknotes, the CBK has selected a German firm for their printing. In a statement, Governor Dr. Kamau added that this update is part of the CBK’s routine operations to replace aging currency and maintain the integrity of Kenya’s monetary system.
This process follows a June 2018 High Court ruling that allowed the CBK to proceed with tendering for new currency printing, ensuring the continued reliability of Kenya’s banknotes.
