The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has announced the progressive rollout of updated banknotes for KES 50, KES 100, KES 200, and KES 500 denominations, continuing its initiative to enhance Kenya’s currency series. This follows the release of the revised KES 1,000 note earlier this year.
In a statement dated November 20, 2024, the CBK highlighted that the updated banknotes feature key changes aimed at improving security and reflecting institutional updates. These include the inclusion of the signatures of CBK Governor Dr. Kamau Thugge and the Principal Secretary of the National Treasury Dr. Chris Kiptoo, as well as the year of print now marked as 2024. Additionally, the notes incorporate advanced security threads with color-changing effects that are specific to each denomination, ensuring increased protection against counterfeiting.
The CBK emphasized that while the updated banknotes are being gradually introduced, all other features of the currency remain the same as those in the series issued in 2019. The bank reassured the public that previously issued banknotes remain valid and will continue to circulate alongside the new ones.
“We wish to update the public that the release of KES 50, KES 100, KSh 200, and KES 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,” the statement read. The CBK further clarified, “All other banknotes currently in circulation remain legal tender and will continue to circulate alongside the released banknotes.”
The bank also encouraged citizens to visit its website for detailed information on the new banknotes and their features.
