BoG to introduce upgraded Ghana cedi banknotes in November
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) will introduce a new series of Ghana cedi banknotes, dubbed the Heritage Series, as part of efforts to modernise the currency and strengthen its security and durability.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, made the announcement at the end of the 132nd Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
The new banknotes are expected to feature enhanced security measures, improved durability and modern designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage, culture and national identity.
According to Dr Asiama, the current Ghana cedi banknote designs have been in circulation for more than two decades, making periodic modernisation necessary as technology and security standards evolve.
The Governor said the Heritage Series is intended to provide stronger protection against counterfeiting, withstand prolonged circulation and support more efficient and cost-effective currency management.
He added that the new series will also provide an opportunity to honour Ghanaian national heroes and showcase elements of the country’s heritage and identity.
Existing notes remain legal tender
Dr Asiama stressed that the introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean the withdrawal of the existing Ghana cedi banknotes.
He explained that the new notes will co-circulate with the existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender.
“There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or to withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the new Heritage Series,” he said.
The BoG Governor therefore urged the public to continue using existing banknotes alongside the new notes once they are introduced.
Heritage Series to launch November 3
The Bank of Ghana is scheduled to officially launch the Heritage Series on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
Dr Asiama also appealed to the public, businesses, traders and financial institutions to handle banknotes properly to preserve their quality and reduce the cost of replacing damaged notes.
He urged Ghanaians to desist from crumpling, writing on, stapling or using banknotes for decorative purposes, including money bouquets, spraying and other forms of currency abuse.
“Proper handling will help preserve the quality of our banknotes. It will reduce replacement costs for the central bank and it will support efficient currency management,” he said.
The Governor described the integrity of Ghana’s currency as a shared responsibility and urged the public to embrace the new Heritage Series with pride and a commitment to preserving the quality of the cedi.
