UN Commends Ghana's Tribute to Kofi Annan on New GH¢100 Banknote

The United Nations has welcomed Ghana's decision to feature former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on the country's new GH¢100 banknote. In a statement issued on Thursday, November 12, 2026, UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana Zia Choudhury praised the central bank's decision, noting that it honors a statesman whose work extended far beyond West Africa. Annan led the United Nations as its seventh Secretary-General from 1997 to 2006 and championed human rights, sustainable development, and multilateral cooperation.

Annan's recognition on Ghana's national currency is a fitting tribute to a distinguished son of Ghana whose contributions transcended national boundaries. He and the organization jointly received the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts toward a more peaceful world. The UN emphasized that his leadership left a permanent mark on international affairs. The new GH¢100 note centers on Ghana's role in global security and diplomacy, with Annan's portrait on the front of the bill.

The reverse side of the note features the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, alongside Bi Nka Bi, a traditional Adinkra symbol signifying peaceful coexistence and conflict avoidance. This design element highlights Ghana's commitment to peacekeeping and its role in promoting international peace and security. The GH¢100 bill is part of the Bank of Ghana's new Heritage Series, which features prominent historical figures, cultural icons, and national landmarks.

The Heritage Series replaces the collective portrait of Ghana's founding "Big Six" leaders, which appeared on national banknotes for nearly two decades. President John Mahama officially unveiled the currency suite on Thursday, November 12 at Bank Square in Accra. Each note in the series captures a distinct pillar of Ghanaian identity, spanning commerce, religious diversity, education, justice, culture, freedom, international peace, and sovereignty.

The series also spotlights several figures whose influence shaped Ghana and the wider African continent. Ghana's founding president and Pan-Africanist leader, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, anchors the highest denomination GH¢200 bill alongside his mausoleum in Accra. The series also elevates pioneering women and educators, including trailblazing jurist Justice Annie Jiagge, national flag designer Theodosia Salome Okoh, and renowned educator Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey.

For everyday consumers and cross-border traders, the central bank paired the cultural tribute with major physical upgrades. Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson noted that the new currency features enhanced security measures and practical upgrades for daily trade. The redesign aims to improve the security and durability of the currency, while also promoting financial inclusion and economic growth.

The unveiling of the new Heritage Series has drawn wide praise, with many Ghanaians welcoming the tribute to Kofi Annan and other national heroes. However, some public commentators online noted the omission of other prominent post-independence figures. Despite this, the new currency is seen as a significant step towards promoting Ghana's cultural heritage and national identity.

Key points

• The UN has commended Ghana's decision to feature Kofi Annan on the new GH¢100 banknote, citing his contributions to global peacebuilding and diplomacy.
• The new GH¢100 note is part of the Bank of Ghana's Heritage Series, which features prominent historical figures, cultural icons, and national landmarks.
• The redesign of the national currency aims to promote financial inclusion, economic growth, and national identity.