The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced that it will introduce its upgraded Ghana Cedi Heritage Series into circulation from December 1, 2026. The existing banknotes will remain legal tender. According to BoG Governor, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, the new banknotes have been designed with enhanced security features, improved durability, and more portable sizes to strengthen currency protection and improve convenience in everyday transactions.
The upgraded notes were launched at Bank Square in Accra on November 12, 2026, and are intended to reinforce public confidence in the national currency while celebrating Ghana's history and cultural identity. The Heritage Series features national heroes, historic sites, monuments, and Adinkra symbols, bringing elements of Ghana's heritage into the country's everyday monetary transactions.
Dr. Asiama explained that the improved security features would make it more difficult to counterfeit the notes and help the public identify genuine banknotes more easily. The enhanced security features are part of the BoG's efforts to strengthen currency protection and prevent counterfeiting. The Governor stressed that the introduction of the Heritage Series would not mean the immediate withdrawal of the existing banknotes, as both series would circulate alongside each other.
The BoG is also working with stakeholders to introduce a new Currency Act to replace the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), which has governed the country's currency for decades. The proposed legislation is expected to strengthen penalties for counterfeiting and establish clearer procedures for detecting, surrendering, authenticating, and destroying counterfeit notes. This move aims to provide stronger legal backing for the fight against the mutilation, defacement, and abuse of banknotes and coins.
To improve coordination between the central bank and commercial banks in managing currency operations, the BoG has developed an Enterprise Currency Operations Management Software (ECOMS) entirely in-house. The Bank also plans to establish additional Cash Centres at its Ho and Tamale Regional Offices to bring currency services closer to the public. These initiatives aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of currency management in Ghana.
As part of efforts to improve public understanding of the new currency, the Governor announced the launch of a Cedi App to educate users on the features of the Heritage Series and assist people with visual impairments. The BoG will also undertake a nationwide public education campaign in major local languages to help Ghanaians identify genuine banknotes and handle the currency responsibly. This campaign aims to promote public awareness and confidence in the new currency.
The introduction of the Heritage Series is expected to have a positive impact on Ghana's economy and financial sector. The upgraded banknotes will not only improve the security and durability of the currency but also promote national pride and cultural identity. With the new currency set to circulate alongside the existing series, the BoG is confident that the transition will be smooth and will not disrupt economic activity.
Key points
- The new Ghana Cedi Heritage Series features enhanced security features, improved durability, and more portable sizes.
- The existing banknotes will remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the new series.
- The BoG is working on a new Currency Act to strengthen penalties for counterfeiting and establish clearer procedures for detecting and destroying counterfeit notes.
