By Edwin Tshivhidzo, tel: (012) 314-2454

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) plans to issue upgraded banknotes with improved security features, as from next year.
 
The new and improved bank notes are expected to come into circulation as from 1 February.
 
The design changes and upgraded security features will be made public on 17 January, approximately two weeks before the upgraded notes are issued.
 
"This will coincide with an extensive public communication campaign to educate the public on the changes to the banknotes' design and security features," says the SARB.
 
It said this had been done to ensure that South Africa's currency utilised the latest technology and was in line with international best practice.
 
"The current banknotes will remain legal tender alongside the upgraded banknotes and will continue to be accepted," it added, saying it had already engaged with commercial banks and the cash management and handling industry in this regard.
 
The objective was to educate and train key personnel in the industry on the relevant changes to the design and security features.
 
The public is also informed that there will be no need to change their money as a result and encouraged to know and familiarise themselves with the security features on the currency. - BuaNews