The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced that it is in the process of releasing updated banknotes for smaller denominations, including the Sh50, Sh100, Sh200, and Sh500 notes. This follows the earlier release of the Sh1,000 denomination, which has already begun circulating. The new banknotes will feature significant updates, including the addition of new security features designed to prevent counterfeiting and improve the durability and usability of the currency.
One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of new signatures on the notes. The signatures of CBK Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge and National Treasury Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo will be featured on the updated banknotes. Additionally, the year of print 2024 will be marked on the notes, signifying the current series. Another major enhancement to the new banknotes is the introduction of advanced security threads. These threads are designed with denomination-specific color-changing effects, which will make the banknotes more secure and harder to forge.
The release of the new notes is part of CBK’s ongoing efforts to modernize Kenya’s currency and strengthen its security measures. This move also aligns with the global trend of central banks upgrading banknotes to keep pace with technological advancements in printing and security. By incorporating such sophisticated features, the CBK aims to improve public confidence in the Kenyan shilling and protect the economy from the impact of counterfeit currency. With the gradual rollout of these new denominations, the CBK hopes to ensure a more secure and efficient currency system for the country’s growing economy.
