The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has urged the public and financial institutions to improve the way they handle banknotes, warning that careless treatment of the cedi increases the cost of replacing damaged currency.
The central bank’s appeal comes ahead of the introduction of the new Heritage Series banknotes on November 3, 2026, which are expected to be more durable than the current notes.
Head of Currency at the Bank of Ghana, Dominic Owusu, said improved durability of the new notes should not lead to careless handling by the public.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on September 24, he said keeping banknotes clean and in good condition would help extend their circulation life and reduce the frequency with which the central bank has to replace them.
“Once we keep the banknotes clean, it will also reduce the printing cost so that we are able to ensure that we have fair, clean banknotes in circulation,” he said.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, also appealed to individuals, traders, businesses and financial institutions to treat banknotes responsibly.
He specifically cautioned against crumpling, writing on, stapling or deliberately damaging the cedi, as well as using banknotes for decorative activities such as money bouquets and money spraying.
“Proper handling will help preserve the quality of our banknotes. It will reduce replacement cost for the central bank, and it will support efficient currency management,” Dr Asiama said.
New notes designed for greater durability
The Bank of Ghana says the Heritage Series has been designed with enhanced security features, greater durability and elements intended to reflect Ghana’s heritage and national identity.
According to Mr Owusu, the new banknotes will continue to use a cotton-based substrate but will have additional reinforcement to improve their durability.
The central bank has stressed that the responsibility for maintaining the quality of banknotes extends beyond the introduction of the new series.
The appeal forms part of the Bank’s broader Clean Note Policy, which encourages the public and businesses to keep banknotes clean and fit for circulation.
Existing notes remain valid
The introduction of the Heritage Series will not immediately withdraw the existing cedi notes from circulation.
The Bank of Ghana says the new and existing banknotes will circulate alongside each other, with the current notes retaining their status as legal tender.
The public has therefore been advised against rushing to exchange existing banknotes when the new series is launched.
The Heritage Series is scheduled for official launch on November 3, 2026.
