The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has sought to calm concerns over the planned introduction of a new series of Ghana Cedi banknotes, assuring the public that the existing notes will remain valid and continue to circulate alongside the new currency.
The new notes, to be known as the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, are scheduled for official launch on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, announced the development at the 132nd Regular Meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), explaining that the initiative forms part of efforts to modernise Ghana’s currency and strengthen its resilience against emerging threats.
He stressed that the introduction of the Heritage Series does not amount to the withdrawal or cancellation of the current Ghana Cedi banknotes.
According to him, the existing notes will remain legal tender and will circulate together with the new series.
Dr. Asiama therefore urged members of the public not to rush to banks to exchange or withdraw their existing cash merely because the new notes are being introduced.
New notes to reflect Ghana’s heritage
The Governor said the Heritage Series has been developed in response to changes in currency circulation, technological advancement and evolving global standards for banknote security.
The new banknotes are expected to incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability and modern designs reflecting Ghana’s heritage, culture, national identity and aspirations.
The series will also provide an opportunity to honour Ghanaian national heroes and incorporate iconographic elements depicting aspects of the country’s history and vision for the future.
“The Ghana Cedi is more than a medium of exchange. It is a symbol of our economic sovereignty and an important instrument of economic activity,” Dr. Asiama said.
BoG targets counterfeiting and currency replacement costs
The Governor explained that the upgraded security features are intended to provide stronger protection against counterfeiting, while the improved durability of the notes is expected to enable them to withstand prolonged circulation.
He said the changes would also support more efficient and cost-effective currency management by reducing the frequency with which damaged banknotes have to be replaced.
Dr. Asiama, however, said the responsibility for maintaining the quality of the national currency does not rest with the central bank alone.
He appealed to Ghanaians, businesses, traders and financial institutions to handle banknotes responsibly.
BoG tackles “currency abuse”
The Governor specifically cautioned the public against practices that damage banknotes, including crumpling, writing on, stapling and using currency for decorative purposes.
He also mentioned the use of banknotes for money bouquets, spraying and other forms of currency abuse.
According to him, such practices contribute to the deterioration of banknotes and ultimately increase the cost of currency management and replacement.
He described the preservation of clean and durable banknotes as a shared national responsibility.
The Bank of Ghana is expected to formally unveil the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series on November 3, 2026, with the new notes subsequently entering circulation.
Dr. Asiama urged Ghanaians to receive the new series with confidence and a sense of ownership, while continuing to protect the integrity of Ghana’s national currency.
