MBABANE – The Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) has announced the release of updated E10 and E20 banknotes which start circulation this week.
The updates on the banknotes reflect significant changes from the merging of the former Swaziland Building Society (SBS) and Eswatini Bank, including the change of the country’s name from Swaziland to Eswatini.
Bank denominations now also display the new name.
The release also includes colour design and security feature changes.
CBE Governor Dr. Phil Mnisi said the decision to release the updated notes was informed by the need to strengthen the security features and to remain compliant with international best practices.
“We also had to incorporate the governor’s name and signature in the updated notes,” CBE Head of Strategy and Communication Mandla Luphondvo said.
Other changes include the Siswati translation of the reverse side of the note, replacement of the name of the former governor, Dr. Majozi Sithole, and incorporation of several security features, including a clear windowed thread and a see-through feature.
“As a bank, we had to ensure that the updated notes were released at the right time to reflect government changes and the current identity of the country,” said Luphondvo.
The public is urged to familiarise themselves with the genuine banknotes and security features to avoid being duped or manipulated or counterfeited.
According to the CBE’s statement, there was only one reported discovery of an attempted ATM bombing.
There was only one such incident during the financial year (GAMPS2024/25) according to the bank.
CBE Head of Strategy and Communication Mandla Luphondvo, pleaded with the public to know the correct and genuine banknotes, warning against fraudsters.
Some already circulated notes with updated features are presumed to be genuine. He also urged people to report suspected or proven risks.
“If you happen to be a victim, report the matter to the nearest police station,” he advised.
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