Ghana to launch new cedi notes after two decades

The Bank of Ghana will introduce a new series of cedi banknotes in November, more than two decades after the current designs entered circulation, as the central bank moves to strengthen security and make the currency more durable.

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The new notes, known as the Heritage Series, will feature enhanced security measures, improved durability and designs intended to reflect Ghana’s culture, heritage and national identity.

Johnson Asiama, governor of the Bank of Ghana, announced the new series at the end of the central bank’s 132nd Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Thursday.

“The upgraded banknotes incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability, and modern designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage and Ghana’s aspirations,” Asiama said.

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The central bank said the new series is designed to provide greater protection against counterfeiting, withstand prolonged use and improve the efficiency of currency management.

Asiama said the redesign was necessary because the current cedi banknotes have been in circulation for more than 20 years, while technology and security standards have continued to evolve.

The Heritage Series will also provide an opportunity to honour Ghanaian national heroes and feature elements of the country’s heritage and identity, according to the governor.

The introduction of the new notes will not mean the immediate withdrawal of the existing cedi banknotes.

Asiama said the Heritage Series will circulate alongside the current notes, which will remain legal tender. He urged the public not to rush to exchange or withdraw existing banknotes simply because the new series is being introduced.

“There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or to withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the new Heritage Series,” he said.

The Heritage Series will be officially launched on November 3, 2026, at Bank Square in Accra.

The central bank is also urging businesses, traders, financial institutions and the wider public to handle banknotes properly to extend their lifespan and reduce the cost of replacing damaged currency.

Asiama urged Ghanaians to avoid crumpling, writing on or stapling banknotes, as well as using them for decorative purposes such as money bouquets and spraying.

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“Proper handling will help preserve the quality of our banknotes. It will reduce replacement costs for the central bank and it will support efficient currency management,” he said.

The governor described the integrity of Ghana’s currency as a shared responsibility and called on the public to embrace the new series while taking greater care of both the new and existing notes.

Faith Omoboye is a foreign affairs correspondent with background in History and International relations. Her work focuses on African politics, diplomacy, and global governance.