The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has unveiled an upgraded series of Ghana cedi banknotes.
The new notes, known as the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, are expected to enter circulation from December 1, 2026, alongside existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender.
Speaking at the official launch in Accra, Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama said the upgrade responds to the economy’s changing demands and the need to maintain public confidence in physical currency.
The new series, introduced under the theme “The Cedi, Our Future — Secure, Designed to Last,” incorporates improved security features intended to strengthen protection against counterfeiting and make it easier for the public to identify genuine banknotes.
Dr Asiama said the improved durability would help the notes withstand Ghana’s climatic conditions and frequent handling, potentially extending their lifespan in circulation and supporting more efficient currency management.
“The Heritage Series incorporates enhanced security features to strengthen protection against counterfeiting and to help the public identify genuine banknotes more easily,” he said.
The redesign also introduces smaller and more portable banknotes to improve convenience during everyday transactions.
The new notes also feature national heroes, historic landmarks and Adinkra symbols, incorporating elements of Ghana’s history and cultural heritage into the design of the national currency.
According to Dr Asiama, each denomination tells a distinct story through its featured personalities, landmarks and symbols, connecting the country’s history with its present aspirations.
The Governor said the redesign demonstrates that currency modernisation can advance alongside the preservation of national identity.
Physical Cash Remains Important
The launch coincides with the growing adoption of digital payments across Ghana’s financial system.
However, Dr Asiama maintained that physical currency remains important to the country’s monetary resilience, particularly when electronic payment systems experience disruptions.
He noted that technical failures, cyber incidents, natural disasters and other disruptions could affect payment networks, making physical cash an important alternative for households and businesses.
“A resilient economy must be able to benefit from technological progress while retaining the capacity to function when that technology fails,” he said.
The Governor said the Bank would continue to support digital innovation while ensuring that physical currency remained accessible and dependable.
As part of efforts to strengthen currency operations, the Bank has developed an Enterprise Currency Operations Management Software (ECOM), an internally developed system intended to improve coordination and operational efficiency.
Dr Asiama said the software was developed using the Bank’s internal technical expertise, adding that other central banks had expressed interest in learning from the innovation.
The Bank is also planning to establish additional cash centres at its regional offices in Ho and Tamale to bring currency services closer to the public.
It is further introducing a Cedi App to help users understand the security features of the Heritage Series and improve accessibility for persons with visual impairments.
Existing Notes Remain Legal Tender
The Bank has assured the public that the introduction of the upgraded series will not invalidate existing Ghana cedi banknotes.
Both series will circulate alongside each other, allowing individuals, businesses and financial institutions time to adjust to the new notes.
Dr Asiama said the transition would be managed to avoid unnecessary disruption to economic activities and maintain confidence in the national currency.
The Bank will also undertake a nationwide public education campaign in major local languages to familiarise Ghanaians with the new designs and security features.
The campaign is expected to educate the public on identifying genuine banknotes and handling currency responsibly.
