Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park proposes independence photo for cedi notes

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park has formally requested the Bank of Ghana to feature the iconic photograph of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah declaring Ghana's independence on selected cedi notes. The proposal suggests replacing the current imagery of the "Big Six" on specific denominations with the historic 1957 image to better reflect the nation's founding moment. This request comes as part of the initial preparations for Ghana’s upcoming 70th independence anniversary celebrations.

The timing of the proposal is strategically aligned with the nation's platinum jubilee, scheduled for March 6, 2027. Management at the Memorial Park argues that the image of Dr. Nkrumah at the Old Polo Grounds remains the most recognizable symbol of the country’s transition to self-rule. By placing this photograph on the national currency, the park aims to ensure that the spirit of the 1957 declaration is prominently preserved in the daily lives of Ghanaians and recognized by the international community.

This initiative follows the Bank of Ghana's recent launch of its redesigned Heritage Series of banknotes on November 3, 2026. The central bank's update to the currency has provided a window for public discourse on the historical figures and landmarks represented on the country's legal tender. The Memorial Park’s proposal seeks to influence future iterations of these designs as the government and state institutions begin planning for the 2027 milestone.

While the Bank of Ghana has not yet issued an official response to the request, the proposal has reignited discussions regarding the representation of Ghana's political history on its currency. As the 70th anniversary approaches, the suggestion serves as a prompt for the central bank to consider how the nation's monetary symbols can best commemorate the legacy of its first President and the collective journey toward sovereignty.