Kenyan currency undergoes major modifications

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Local currency in Kenya has undergone major modifications. This comes after a proposal as stipulated in the Constitution that bars the use of portraits or images of individuals, stating instead that notes and coins should only bear images that depict or symbolize aspects of Kenya.

The Central Bank of Kenya was set to get rid of the historical currency to prepare way for transition to the new-look notes and coins.

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Accordingly, CBK invited individuals, institutions, organisations and professional bodies to present proposals on elements/features to be considered for incorporation in the design of the new currency.

“We are in the business of having the new generation currency that is consistent with the Constitution and we will do this in accordance with the Central Bank Act and to all other laws that govern that whole process,” said CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge.

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The guiding themes for the new currency were proposed to be ‘Kenya Reborn’ and ‘Kenya Prosperity’, and the design elements were to be unique to Kenya by depicting physical features that reflect any aspect of the country, like flora and fauna that are unique to Kenya, key aspects in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, infrastructure, sports, tourism and environment.

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“As a transparent institution, it encourages public participation in this important exercise because citizens’ views and input in the process is a fundamental Constitutional right.”