By Emmanuel Nduka
Ghana has introduced a redesigned series of its national currency, featuring prominent historical figures, national landmarks and traditional cultural symbols in a move aimed at celebrating the country’s heritage while strengthening the security and durability of the cedi.
The new banknotes, known as the Ghana Heritage Series, were unveiled by the Bank of Ghana on Thursday at a ceremony attended by President John Dramani Mahama and other dignitaries in Accra.
The redesigned currency, scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026, incorporates improved security features intended to combat counterfeiting, enhance durability and make the notes more convenient to handle.
The new series retains the country’s existing eight denominations of GH¢1, GH¢2, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200. However, the redesigned notes will circulate alongside the existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender.
According to the central bank, the redesign became necessary after more than two decades of using the core designs of the existing currency, amid advances in technology and the growing need for stronger security measures.
Beyond their monetary value, the new banknotes have been designed to tell different stories about Ghana’s history, cultural identity and contributions to national development.
The GH¢1 note pays tribute to Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, a pioneering market trader and market queen, while featuring Accra’s popular Makola Market to recognise the contribution of women traders to Ghana’s economy.
The GH¢2 denomination celebrates religious diversity and peaceful coexistence, featuring Cardinal Peter Dery, a prominent Catholic leader, alongside the historic Larabanga Mosque in northern Ghana.
Education and intellectual development take centre stage on the GH¢5 note, which features James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, a renowned educationist and Pan-Africanist, as well as Achimota School.
Similarly, the GH¢10 note honours Annie Ruth Jiagge, Ghana’s first female judge, with the Supreme Court building appearing on the reverse side as a representation of justice, equality and the rule of law.
Ghana’s artistic and cultural heritage is reflected in the GH¢20 note, which features celebrated composer and music scholar Ephraim Amu, alongside the National Theatre.
The GH¢50 denomination recognises Theodosia Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, while the GH¢100 note honours former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre also featured.
The highest denomination, GH¢200, pays tribute to Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, whose portrait appears alongside the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Accra, symbolising the country’s independence and sovereignty.
The banknotes also incorporate traditional Adinkra symbols, further reinforcing their cultural significance and connection to Ghanaian identity.
Speaking at the unveiling, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the redesigned currency incorporates enhanced security features and improved materials to make the notes more resistant to counterfeiting and wear.
The new notes have also been made smaller and more portable to improve convenience in everyday transactions.
The central bank’s Director of Currency Management, Dominic Owusu, explained that the existing GH¢200 denomination was particularly large and difficult for some people to fit into their wallets, prompting the decision to introduce a more practical design.
President Mahama, who attended the ceremony, urged Ghanaians to take pride in their national currency and protect its integrity.
He encouraged citizens to embrace the redesigned banknotes, describing the cedi as an important symbol of the country’s economic identity and sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has assured the public that the introduction of the Heritage Series will not invalidate existing banknotes.
It advised Ghanaians against rushing to banks to exchange their current notes or withdrawing money solely to obtain the redesigned currency, stressing that both series would remain in circulation.
The central bank also announced plans for a nationwide public education campaign to familiarise citizens with the new banknotes, particularly their distinctive designs and security features.
The public has further been urged to handle the currency responsibly by avoiding practices such as crumpling, writing on or stapling banknotes, as well as using them for decorative purposes, including money bouquets.
The Bank of Ghana said proper handling of banknotes would help extend their lifespan, reduce the cost of replacing damaged currency and improve the efficiency of currency management.
The introduction of the Heritage Series represents part of Ghana’s broader efforts to modernise its monetary system while using its national currency as a platform for preserving and promoting the country’s historical and cultural identity.
