Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, announced the development on Thursday, November 12, during the launch of the new Cedi Heritage Series at Bank Square in Accra.
The redesigned banknotes feature enhanced security features, improved durability and more portable sizes, as the central bank seeks to strengthen currency protection, reduce counterfeiting and improve the convenience of cash transactions.
According to the Governor, the new notes also celebrate Ghana’s national identity through images of prominent national heroes, historic sites, monuments and cultural symbols, including Adinkra symbols.
He said the enhanced security features would make the notes more difficult to counterfeit while helping members of the public distinguish genuine banknotes from forged ones.
Old Ghana Cedi Notes to Remain Legal Tender
The Bank of Ghana said the introduction of the Heritage Series would not invalidate existing banknotes, as both the redesigned and current series would circulate simultaneously.
Asiama explained that the arrangement would allow individuals, businesses and financial institutions sufficient time to adjust to the new currency without disrupting economic activities.
“The Heritage Series will be introduced into circulation from December 1, 2026, and will circulate alongside the existing series, which remains legal tender. This approach will allow the public and businesses to adjust smoothly to the Heritage banknotes without unnecessary disruption to economic activity,” he said.
The central bank said the redesigned notes would also be more resistant to frequent handling and Ghana’s climatic conditions, potentially extending their lifespan in circulation.
