Key facts
- Event
- SARB roadshow in Mpumalanga to explain Madiba banknotes
- Start date
- Friday (campaign begins in Mbombela city centre)
- End date
- November 2 at Highveld Mall's Ridge Casino
- New banknotes
- R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200 with Nelson Mandela's face
- Launch
- Early September by Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus
- Spokesperson
- Hlengani Mathebula
Background
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) will begin a public awareness tour in Mpumalanga on Friday to explain the new Madiba banknotes series. The new R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200 notes will all bear the face of former President Nelson Mandela and are scheduled to enter circulation before the end of the year.
The banknotes were launched in early September by Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus. SARB spokesperson Hlengani Mathebula said the roadshow aims to familiarise communities with the new notes prior to circulation, adding that the bank wants to reach every South African through the communication campaign.
Current situation
In Mpumalanga, the campaign will be held in the Mbombela city centre from Friday until October 29, before moving to the taxi rank on October 30. It will then proceed to the pension pay-point in Emalahleni on November 1 and end at the Highveld Mall's Ridge Casino on November 2.
Awareness campaigns will also be held at retail malls, transport hubs and pension pay points in urban and rural areas across the country. The campaign uses radio, television, billboards, banners, the SARB website, print and online media, and social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook and mobile device sites.
Impacts
The campaign is designed to help the public recognise the distinct features of the new banknotes, which is part of SARB's responsibility to protect the credibility of the South African currency. By reaching communities in Mpumalanga, the bank aims to reduce confusion when the new notes enter circulation.
Residents in Mbombela, Emalahleni and surrounding areas will have direct access to SARB officials at the designated venues. The use of multiple media channels is intended to extend the reach of the information to those who may not attend the physical roadshow.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the roadshow successfully familiarises the public with the new notes, the transition to the Madiba series could proceed smoothly when the notes enter circulation before the end of the year. However, if awareness remains low in some areas, there may be temporary confusion or reluctance to accept the new notes.
Depending on public response, SARB could extend similar campaigns to other provinces or adjust its communication strategy. The bank may also monitor the use of social media and other channels to gauge the effectiveness of the outreach.
Source: sanews.gov.za
