Ghana Launches New 'Heritage Series' Cedi Banknotes for Phased Rollout

President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the Bank of Ghana’s upgraded Heritage Series cedi banknotes at a ceremony held at Bank Square in Accra on Thursday, November 12, 2026. Speaking at the unveiling, the President highlighted the physical upgrades of the new currency, explaining that the banknotes are printed on reinforced cotton paper engineered to withstand wear and tear far better than existing notes. "The new cedis we introduce today are made of cotton paper and are designed to last longer than the old currency notes they are replacing," President Mahama stated, adding that the redesigned notes are also slightly smaller and easier for the public to handle. 

​To prevent market disruption and ensure a seamless transition for businesses and everyday consumers, the government and the central bank are adopting a gradual, side-by-side rollout. President Mahama assured Ghanaians that the Heritage Series will not immediately displace the current cedi notes. Instead, both sets of currency will circulate concurrently while commercial banks steadily withdraw worn-out notes from the system until the new series takes over completely. According to the Bank of Ghana, the Heritage Series will officially enter public circulation on December 1, 2026, with all existing banknotes retaining their full legal tender status throughout the transition period. 

​Beyond improved durability and lower replacement costs, the new banknotes incorporate modernized security features designed by the Bank of Ghana under Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama to combat counterfeiting and respond to evolving technological threats. Visually, the Heritage Series serves as a tribute to Ghana’s history, culture, and national identity, featuring prominent national figures, historic landmarks, and indigenous cultural motifs. President Mahama encouraged young Ghanaians in particular to draw inspiration from the legacy depicted on the notes and to contribute to national development through education, enterprise, and public service. 

​Addressing the broader economic context during the launch, President Mahama emphasized that physical upgrades to the currency must be backed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals. He linked the long-term stability of the cedi to the government’s New Economy Programme, which prioritizes boosting domestic production, reducing reliance on imports, and expanding exports to generate foreign exchange and create jobs. "The strength of our currency must be felt in the everyday lives of our people," the President remarked, underscoring that genuine economic productivity remains the true anchor of the cedi's value. 

​Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has renewed its appeal to the general public to adopt proper currency-handling habits ahead of the December 1 rollout. Central bank officials noted that practices such as crumpling, staining, or improperly storing banknotes prematurely degrade currency quality and drive up printing and replacement expenses for the state. By embracing the new Heritage Series with pride and handling the notes with care, citizens can help preserve the lifespan, integrity, and visual quality of Ghana's national currency.  

@Volta Today