Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) Governor Patrick Njoroge on Saturday unveiled the new-generation banknotes during the Madaraka Day celebrations at Narok Stadium.
While speaking at the ceremony, Njoroge disclosed that the notes were already in circulation.
"The Central Bank of Kenya has now completed the process of producing the new-generation banknotes in accordance with the Constitution all applicable laws.
"I can confirm that the new-generation banknotes were issued on May 31, 2019, by a gazette notice. They are now legal tender," he explained.
All the new banknotes bear the image of Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) - which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Kenya.
Each of the new-generation notes has a unique theme. The Ksh50, Ksh100, Ksh200, Ksh500, Ksh1000 notes are inspired by green energy, agriculture, social services, tourism and governance respectively.
In addition to that, the new banknotes have distinct features to facilitate the detection of counterfeits.
That being said, here is a summary of the key security features that you should look out for:
1.Feel
If you run your fingers over the new notes, you should feel the part that is written Kenya and the value of the note i.e.1000, 500, 200, 100 and 50.
The notes also have edges on the bars. 1 bar, 2 bars, 3 bars, 4 bars and 5 bars signify Ksh50, Ksh100, Ksh200, Ksh500, Ksh1000 respectively.
2. Look
If you hold up the note against the light, you'll see a perfect lions head, the text CBK, and the value of the banknote.
You'll also see a security thread that appears as a continuous line.
3. Tilt
If you tilt the banknote at an angle, the security thread changes colour from red to green on all banknotes.
The Ksh200, Ksh500 and Ksh1000 banknotes have additional rainbow colours on the thread.
The golden band on the back of the note shows its value.
