The Bank of Ghana has called on the public, businesses, and financial institutions to handle banknotes with care to reduce the cost of replacing worn-out and damaged currency. This appeal comes ahead of the introduction of the upgraded Ghana cedi banknotes, known as the Heritage Series, slated for launch on November 3, 2026. The central bank aims to maintain quality currency in circulation through proper handling.
According to Dominic Owusu, Head of Currency at the Bank of Ghana, although the new notes will be stronger than the current ones, people should still handle them properly. In an interview on Eyewitness News on September 24, 2026, Mr. Owusu emphasized that keeping banknotes clean and in good condition is crucial. He encouraged Ghanaians to mind their handling, even with the new, more durable banknotes.
Proper handling of banknotes will help lower the amount of money spent on printing replacement notes. The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, has also appealed to traders, businesses, financial institutions, and other users of the cedi to help preserve the condition of banknotes. He advised against crumpling, writing on, or stapling notes, and discouraged using banknotes for decorative activities.
The Heritage Series will be introduced with enhanced security features and improved durability. The new notes will retain the use of a cotton-based material but will have additional reinforcement to make them last longer than the existing banknotes. The designs will highlight aspects of Ghana’s heritage, culture, and national identity.
The Bank of Ghana’s appeal for proper handling applies to both the new and existing banknotes under its Clean Note Policy. The introduction of the Heritage Series will not make the current cedi notes invalid. The two sets of notes will circulate alongside each other, and existing banknotes will continue to be accepted as legal tender.
The central bank has advised the public not to rush to exchange their current notes when the new series comes into circulation. The public is encouraged to continue using the existing banknotes, and the new notes will be introduced gradually. This approach aims to minimize disruptions to the financial system and ensure a smooth transition.
The Bank of Ghana’s efforts to promote proper handling of banknotes aim to reduce the costs associated with printing replacement notes. By working together, the central bank and the public can maintain the quality of currency in circulation and ensure the effective management of the country’s banknotes.
Key points
- The Bank of Ghana urges the public to handle banknotes with care to reduce replacement costs.
- The Heritage Series will be introduced with enhanced security features and improved durability.
- The new and existing banknotes will circulate alongside each other, with existing notes remaining legal tender.
