The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has been globally recognized for its newly designed banknotes, winning the “Best New Series” award at the High Security Printing – Europe, Middle East, and Africa (HSP-EMEA) Conference for 2025. The prestigious event took place on February 4, 2025, in Basel, Switzerland, bringing together key players in the security document industry.
The CBK introduced the new series of the Kenyan shilling (KES) in August 2024, prioritizing enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting. This milestone followed the transition from De La Rue to Giesecke+Devrient for the production of the currency, ensuring improved security and quality.
The award-winning banknotes comprise denominations of Ksh.1,000, Ksh.500, Ksh.200, Ksh.100, and Ksh.50. While maintaining the familiar design of their predecessors, these notes incorporate cutting-edge security elements. Among the notable advancements is the integration of Louisenthal’s Rolling Star® i+ thread across all denominations.
Additionally, the three higher denominations (Ksh.1,000, Ksh.500, and Ksh.200) feature a ZigZag dynamic movement effect, while the lower denominations (Ksh.100 and Ksh.50) use a crystal effect. Further reinforcing their security, the banknotes include iridescent bands with ultraviolet (UV) properties and dual-color fluorescence as secondary anti-counterfeiting measures.
CBK Governor Kamau Thugge hailed the award as a validation of Kenya’s efforts to enhance its currency’s security and global appeal. “This award places Kenya’s banknotes at the forefront in terms of appeal, security, and world-class status. By leveraging cutting-edge anti-counterfeiting measures, we are ensuring Kenyans can trust the integrity of their currency,” he remarked.
This achievement builds on CBK’s previous efforts in currency security. In 2014, the bank introduced notes with enhanced security features, such as distinct tactile lines on the edges for easy denomination identification Ksh.50 notes have one bar, while Ksh.100 notes have two. The new series also retains key elements like a watermark featuring a lion’s head, the text “CBK,” and the note’s value.
The HSP-EMEA Conference is a significant forum for security document professionals, focusing on innovations in government-issued documents, including banknotes, passports, ID cards, and excise stamps. Kenya’s win highlights its leadership in currency security within the region and beyond.
By integrating the latest technological advancements, CBK has reinforced its commitment to maintaining the integrity of Kenya’s financial system. The award-winning banknotes are expected to enhance confidence in the country’s currency and further solidify its position as a leader in secure financial instruments.
