The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has unveiled new banknotes for circulation, marking a significant update to the nation’s currency.

These new notes, covering denominations of Ksh50, Ksh100, Ksh200, Ksh500, and Ksh1,000, reflect the signatures of CBK Governor Kamau Thugge and Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo.

In a statement, CBK emphasized that the rollout of these updated notes does not invalidate the older versions currently in circulation.

Both the old and new banknotes will continue to serve as legal tender, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing disruptions to businesses and daily transactions.

“We wish to update the public that the release of KSh 50, KSh 100, KSh 200 and KSh 500 denominations is now in progress.

Other than the changes highlighted above, all other features of the banknotes remain the same as those of the series issued in 2019,” CBK stated.

Some of the key new features on the new notes include;

The signature of the governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, Kamau Thugge.

The signature of the Principal Secretary, National Treasury, Chris Kiptoo.

The year of print – 2024, and;

New security threads with colour-changing effects that are specific to each denomination.

Kenya’s new currency has a big impact, particularly in the fight against corruption, and is more than just a cosmetic choice.

The CBK stated during the introduction of the new notes that police had discovered large sums of money in people’s homes.

The ‘Big Five’ are depicted on the banknotes, and each have a distinct concept.