Bank of Ghana launches new heritage series banknotes

President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, a redesigned collection of banknotes expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.

The new banknotes, introduced by the Bank of Ghana, are aimed at strengthening currency security, improving durability and making everyday financial transactions more convenient for Ghanaians.

Speaking at the launch ceremony at the Bank of Ghana in Accra on Thursday, November 12, President Mahama clarified that the introduction of the new notes would not immediately render the existing banknotes invalid.

He explained that the old and new series would circulate alongside each other, with commercial banks gradually withdrawing the existing notes as the redesigned currency becomes more widely available.

“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. They are not displacing the old currency notes,” the President stated.

He assured the public that there would be no immediate requirement to exchange existing banknotes following the December 1 introduction date.

President Mahama disclosed that the new banknotes had been produced using reinforced cotton paper, a material expected to improve their durability and extend their lifespan compared to the existing currency.

He also highlighted their smaller size, describing the redesigned notes as easier to handle and more convenient for everyday transactions.

The Ghana Cedi Heritage Series also introduces a renewed visual identity, incorporating images of national heroes, historic sites, monuments and Adinkra symbols for the first time.

According to the President, the designs are intended to celebrate Ghana’s history, culture and national identity while helping younger generations develop a deeper appreciation of the country’s heritage.

He traced the origin of the word Cedi to the Akan word for cowry shells, which were historically used as a medium of exchange before the introduction of modern currency systems.

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the upgraded banknotes represented more than a currency redesign, describing the initiative as part of the central bank’s broader commitment to protecting the cedi and modernising currency management.

He explained that a national currency represents a country’s ability to manage its monetary affairs through its own institutions and serves as a foundation for economic activity.

“This launch is more than the introduction of upgraded notes. It is an opportunity for us to reaffirm our responsibility to protect the cedi, to celebrate the heritage that defines us and prepare our currency for the demands of a changing world,” Dr Asiama stated.

The Governor further stressed that the credibility of the national currency depended on sound economic policies, effective institutions and public confidence.

He added that the Heritage Series was another important step in the Bank of Ghana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen currency management and maintain confidence in the cedi.

President Mahama commended the Bank of Ghana’s Governor, Board of Management and staff, as well as international partners, for their contributions towards the successful introduction of the new currency series.

He also used the occasion to highlight the central bank’s role in protecting Ghana’s economic sovereignty as it approaches 70 years of service.

The President urged Ghanaians to continue supporting the national currency, noting that confidence in the cedi must translate into tangible benefits for traders, manufacturers, businesses and households.

“Let us carry the Cedi with pride and uphold the confidence on which it rests so that it continues to serve Ghana securely and well for generations to come,” he said.

President Mahama subsequently declared the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series officially launched, expressing optimism that the redesigned banknotes would strengthen public confidence, preserve Ghana’s cultural heritage and serve the country’s economic interests.

The new banknotes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026, while existing notes will remain legal tender during the gradual transition.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith