John Mahama launches Heritage Series cedi notes to celebrate history

President John Dramani Mahama and Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama officially launched the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series banknotes at the Bank of Ghana headquarters on November 12, 2026. This significant redesign, the most substantial since 2007, introduces eight new denominations ranging from GH₵1 to GH₵200. The upgraded notes feature enhanced anti-counterfeiting security, improved durability through the use of reinforced cotton paper, and more portable, standard sizes. The new series is scheduled to enter general circulation on December 1, 2026, where it will initially circulate alongside existing legal tender notes.

The Heritage Series marks a departure from collective representations, such as the "Big Six," to honoring individual national icons who have shaped Ghana’s progress. The denominations feature notable figures including market trader Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome on the GH₵1, Cardinal Peter Porekuu Dery on the GH₵2, and educational pioneer Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey on the GH₵5. Other notes celebrate the judiciary through Justice Annie Jiagge (GH₵10), the arts with Dr. Ephraim Amu (GH₵20), and national symbols with flag designer Theodosia Okoh (GH₵50). The highest denominations honor global peacekeeper Kofi Annan (GH₵100) and Ghana's first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah (GH₵200).

Governor Asiama emphasized that the redesign integrates advanced security features to maintain public confidence and facilitate easy identification of genuine currency. To support this transition, the central bank launched "The Cedi," a mobile application designed to educate the public and assist visually impaired citizens in identifying the new notes. Furthermore, the Bank of Ghana introduced the Enterprise Currency Operations Management Software (ECOMS), an in-house digital system designed to streamline currency distribution and modernize operational efficiency between the central bank and commercial institutions.

President Mahama highlighted the launch as a celebration of national identity and economic sovereignty, urging Ghanaians to protect the integrity of the cedi regardless of political affiliation. In tandem with the physical rollout, the Bank of Ghana is collaborating on a new Currency Act to modernize legislation from 1964, seeking to impose stricter penalties for counterfeiting. The bank also plans to expand its infrastructure by establishing new Cash Centres in Ho and Tamale. As the nation prepares for the central bank’s 70th anniversary in 2027, the Heritage Series is positioned as a milestone in Ghana’s economic self-determination.