…. New features boost security, accessibility, and sustainability
By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – The Central Bank of Eswatini has officially introduced upgraded E10 and E20 banknotes. These newly enhanced notes feature advanced security elements, improved durability, and updated designs, all aimed at strengthening the integrity of the local currency and curbing counterfeiting.
Unveiled as part of the Bank’s ongoing modernization efforts, the 2024 series also supports eco-conscious printing and accessibility for the visually impaired, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development.
A New Generation of Emalangeni
The new E10 and E20 notes are part of the Central Bank’s efforts to ensure that Eswatini’s currency remains secure, reliable, and inclusive. At the heart of these notes is a dignified portrait of His Majesty King Mswati III, printed using Intaglio, a technique that gives the image a raised texture and distinctive feel, a powerful visual and tactile symbol of national pride.
The updated notes now proudly bear the inscription “UMNTSHOLI WEMASWATI” on the front, along with “CENTRAL BANK OF ESWATINI” on the reverse side, in alignment with the Kingdom’s identity.
Stronger Security, Safer Currency
The 2024 banknotes are embedded with multiple world-class security features designed to prevent counterfeiting and ensure easy verification by the public:
RollingStar® i+ Security Thread – This dynamic thread shifts colours when tilted — gold to jade on the E20 and green to azure on the E10. The letters “CBE” become visible under light, ensuring authenticity at a glance.
Watermark with Electrotype – A 3D image of His Majesty with a highlighted necklace appears when held up to light, acting as a quick and effective verification tool.
Latent Image & Microprinting – The denomination appears in different shades when viewed from different angles, while tiny text only visible under magnification adds another protective layer.
See-through Register – When the note is held against the light, the number 10 or 20 completes perfectly between the front and back of the note.
Inclusion and Accessibility
A powerful step toward inclusivity is the addition of tactile features for visually impaired citizens. Each note now includes embossed numbering, a raised print of His Majesty’s portrait, and distinct tactile symbols, the spear and umgobo, on both sides of the note.
These enhancements not only promote accessibility but also affirm the Central Bank’s dedication to ensuring that all emaSwati can confidently identify and use their currency.
Built to Last – And Sustain
In a major leap toward environmental sustainability, the new notes are produced using organic cotton sourced through the Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA) initiative. This makes Eswatini’s E10 and E20 banknotes part of the growing global movement toward Green Banknotes.
Durable, ethical, and environmentally friendly, these notes are engineered to stay in circulation longer while reducing the environmental footprint of currency production.
A Notable Evolution Since 2017
The 2024 series includes several key updates from the previous issue:
Date Update: Changed from 6 September 2017 to 1 April 2024
️ Wording Change: “Central Bank of Swaziland” updated to “Central Bank of Eswatini”
️ New Signatures: Reflecting current leadership
Visual Refinement: Enhanced design for the coat of arms and numbering
️ Security Thread Upgrade: Introduction of the RollingStar® i+ system
These changes ensure that the new notes are not only more secure but also better aligned with the Kingdom’s evolving identity and standards.
A Note of National Progress
With these new banknotes, the Central Bank of Eswatini sends a clear and confident message: Eswatini is embracing the future with innovation, responsibility, and pride. The updated E10 and E20 notes are more than a means of exchange, they are a reflection of our unity, heritage, and forward-thinking vision.
As these banknotes make their way into the hands of emaSwati across the country, they serve as a symbol of trust, strength, and progress.
