The Bank of Namibia has unveiled a modified Namibia Dollar 50 banknote that now carries the signature of the incumbent Governor, Johannes Gawaxab. The change is presented as a currency security enhancement intended to support public recognition and confidence as the note is replenished in circulation. The central bank framed currency issuance as a sovereign function under Article 128(1) of the Namibian Constitution and Section 38(1) of the Bank of Namibia Act, covering not only issuance but also safeguarding value, deterring counterfeiting and maintaining public trust. The modified N$50 completes a series of banknote upgrades following enhancements to the N$10, N$20, N$100 and N$200, linked to the normal replenishment cycle as notes reach the end of their lifespan. The release also reported that currency in circulation increased by 6.9% in 2024, while counterfeit incidents declined by 10.7%, and described the Governor’s signature as a “Level One” security feature and public recognition marker when modifications are introduced.
Bank of Namibia 2025-05-12
Bank of Namibia unveils modified N$50 banknote featuring Governor Johannes Gawaxab’s signature
The Bank of Namibia has introduced a modified Namibia Dollar 50 banknote featuring the signature of Governor Johannes Gawaxab, enhancing currency security and public confidence. This update completes a series of banknote upgrades aligned with the normal replenishment cycle. The central bank reported a 6.9% increase in currency circulation in 2024 and a 10.7% decline in counterfeit incidents.