Both Washington DC and London have lauded the decision by Central Bank of Kenya to announce phasing out of Sh1,000 notes, a move that is believed to be targeting corrupt individuals.
At Madaraka Day on Saturday, CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge unveiled new currency, besides making the announcement that was least expected.
“To deal conclusively with these concerns, the older Sh1,000 series shall be withdrawn. By a Gazette Notice dated May 31, 2019, all persons have until October 1, 2019, to exchange those notes, after which the older Sh1,000 will cease to be legal tender," he said.
United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya Nic Hailey lauded the move, arguing that it will help corner people who have bee stealing taxpayers money.
"This announcement on the 1,000 bob note is great news. Anyone who has been stashing proceeds of corruption in cash, to avoid oversight, will have to explain where their wealth came from. Welcome @StateHouseKenya tough stand on corruption," he tweeted.
On his part, United States ambassador Kyle McCarter, said the decision would stop the plague of thievery in Kenya, adding that it would also lead to prosperity among the people of Kenya.
"I agree with HC Nic Hailey. Great news. One more tool that can be used to stop the plague of thievery keeping the wananchi from the prosperity they deserve. #StopTheseThieves," he said.
President Uhuru Kenyatta maintained that his efforts to fight corruption will not go unrewarded, adding that he's not ready to back down. He said his determination to make Kenya corruption-free is unbowed.