The Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) has unveiled the newly upgraded family of the national currency, maloti.
The sixth series of banknotes builds on previous issues of 1979, 1989, 1994, 2010, and 2021, each reflecting the country’s technological progress and cultural heritage.
Speaking at the launch on Tuesday this week, CBL Governor, Dr Emmanuel Maluke Letete, said the upgrade was intended to modernise the design, strengthen security features, improve durability, align the currency with current best practices in cash management, promote inclusivity, and preserve the national heritage.
A key highlight of the new series is the introduction of a hybrid composite substrate for the M50, M100, and M200 banknotes. This material blends polyester with a familiar texture of cotton to create a stronger, longer-lasting note, Dr Letete explained.
Although the M10 and M20 have kept the traditional cotton substrate, they are reinforced with a sisal thread, improving their strength and durability in circulation.
The higher denominations (M50, M100, and M200) now feature a rolling star security thread that produces shifting colours and patterns, further enhancing security.
“When tilted, the thread alternates between the letters ‘CBL’ and the note’s denomination. It is visually distinctive and extremely difficult to counterfeit,” he said.
The lower denominations (M10 and M20) incorporate an Anima thread, which appears broken at first glance but forms a continuous line when held to the light. This provides a refined and easily identifiable security layer against counterfeiting.
The bank notes showcase important national symbols such as the portrait of Kings, unity, and the Mokorotlo hat, which embodies Lesotho’s rich heritage.
They also have advanced security features that enhance counterfeit deterrence and maintain public trust and confidence in the national currency.
Dr Letete said switching from cotton paper to a composite (Hybrid) substrate for higher denominations improves durability, lowers replacement costs, and boosts performance across different climate conditions.
He noted that the new notes promote inclusivity by incorporating distinct tactile lines and raised printing, enabling visually impaired individuals to easily identify different denominations and ensuring that the Maloti remains accessible and usable by all citizens.
The previous families of Maloti banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the new series until the CBL officially withdraws them through a legal notice.
