Ghana to Launch New Heritage Series Banknotes

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama is set to launch the new Ghana Heritage Series Banknotes on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra. This launch marks a significant milestone in Ghana's currency management, as the new banknotes aim to enhance security, improve durability, and promote more efficient currency management. The introduction of the Heritage Series is part of efforts to modernize Ghana's currency in response to changing economic and technological developments.

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, highlighted that the current core banknote designs have been in circulation for over two decades, making periodic upgrades necessary to meet modern security requirements and improve currency management. The new banknotes feature advanced security features, improved durability, and contemporary designs that celebrate Ghana's heritage while reflecting the country's future aspirations. The theme of the new banknotes is “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last.”

The Bank of Ghana assures the public that the introduction of the Heritage Series will not invalidate existing banknotes. Current cedi notes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the new series. The public has been advised against rushing to exchange or withdraw existing banknotes following the launch. This move aims to prevent unnecessary panic and ensure a smooth transition to the new currency.

The enhanced security features of the new banknotes are expected to strengthen protection against counterfeiting, while the improved durability will enable the notes to withstand prolonged circulation and reduce the cost of replacing damaged currency. The Bank of Ghana has urged Ghanaians, businesses, traders, and financial institutions to handle banknotes responsibly by avoiding practices such as crumpling, writing on, stapling, spraying, or using money for decorative purposes.

The Bank of Ghana encourages the public to embrace the new Heritage Series and contribute to protecting the integrity and value of the cedi. Proper handling of currency will help preserve the quality of banknotes, reduce replacement costs, and support efficient currency management. The public has been encouraged to report any counterfeit notes or suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

The launch of the Heritage Series banknotes is a significant step towards modernizing Ghana's currency and enhancing its security features. The new banknotes reflect Ghana's rich heritage and its aspirations for the future. The Bank of Ghana remains committed to ensuring the stability and integrity of the cedi, and this launch is a testament to that commitment.

As the launch date approaches, the Bank of Ghana has assured the public that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth transition to the new currency. The public is advised to remain calm and to continue using the existing banknotes as usual. The new Heritage Series banknotes will be distributed to banks and other financial institutions, and the public will be able to access them through normal channels.

Key points

• The new Ghana Heritage Series Banknotes feature advanced security features and improved durability.
• Existing banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the new series.
• The public has been urged to handle banknotes responsibly to preserve their quality and support efficient currency management.