The Bank of Namibia (BoN) yesterday launched a once-off N$60 banknote in commemoration of former president Hage Geingob.
The note will be circulated to the public in two weeks.
The picture of Geingob holding a trophy, found on the back of the note, was taken by The Namibian sport journalist Sheefeni Nikodemus during a Hage Geingob Cup event.
Speaking at the launch, BoN governor Johannes !Gawaxab said the number 60 is symbolic, as it represents the number of years Geingob spent serving Namibia.
“Geingob devoted 60 years of his life to the selfless service of this nation, encompassing his time in exile, his return, and his leadership in an independent Namibia. Thus, the number 60 carries profound symbolic meaning,” he said.
The note will enter circulation in two weeks to allow the bank to hold public awareness campaigns.
“The banknote will circulate alongside existing banknotes and coins, serving both as legal tender and a collector’s item. However, it will only be a one-off print,” said !Gawaxab.
President Nangolo Mbumba said the banknote is a reflection of former president Hage Geingob’s well-known motto: “No one should feel left out of the Namibian House.”
“This commemorative banknote cements Geingob’s vision – which was not only for economic recovery and growth, but also for shared economic prosperity for all Namibian citizens,” said Mbumba.
Mbumba said Geingob prioritised diversification of the economy, which has also been reflected on the note.
One of the features on the new note is a picture of a green hydrogen tank, reflecting Geingob’s passion for renewable energy development.
Mbumba also said Geingob’s leadership built bridges and developed networks to establish Namibia as a frontier for new economic initiatives and opportunities across southern Africa.
CLOSER LOOK
The banknote has a picture of Geingob in a transparent window, symbolising his lasting impact on the nation, according to !Gawaxab.
“Advanced security features include coloured intaglio print, argentum silver ink, and gold accents, which become visible when tilted, while the Independence Memorial Museum is showcased in a secondary transparent window, reinforcing national pride and resilience,” said !Gawaxab.
On the back of the note is a picture of green hydrogen and renewable energy sources, which !Gawaxab said was Geingob’s vision for Namibia.
Additionally, there are raised tactile dots to ensure accessibility for those who are blind or have low vision.
“Under ultraviolet light, hidden design elements such as the Namibian flag and a glowing 60 numeral further enhance its uniqueness,” said !Gawaxab.
Additionally, printed on the notes are the words: “This Beautiful House We Call Namibia.”
These were the first words Geingob said on 21 March 2015, when he became president, according to !Gawaxab
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