President Mahama unveils new Cedi Heritage banknotes ahead of December 1 circulation

President John Dramani Mahama has launched the Bank of Ghana’s Heritage Series banknotes, describing the new currency as an important tool for preserving Ghana’s history and passing the country’s national heritage on to future generations.

He said the historical personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols displayed on the notes would help bring the country’s past closer to young Ghanaians, encouraging them to learn about the individuals and events that have shaped the nation.

Speaking at the launch on Thursday, November 12, President Mahama observed that the banknotes could serve as everyday reminders of Ghana’s historical journey and inspire greater interest in the country's heritage.

According to him, featuring significant national figures and historic locations on the currency would create opportunities for children to ask questions, explore their history and develop a stronger sense of national identity.

“These notes will also help bring our history closer to our children. The national figures, the historic places, and the cultural symbols featured on the Heritage Series can prompt questions, encourage learning, and deepen understanding of the country that our children are growing in,” he said.

He further argued that the country's history should be visible beyond traditional educational spaces, noting that the new currency would bring important aspects of Ghana's heritage into people's daily lives.

“History belongs to our classrooms and museums, and it also deserves a place in our everyday lives. The Heritage Series helps bridge those settings, placing reminders of our national journey in the hands of the new generation,” he added.

President Mahama also acknowledged the contributions of the national figures whose legacies are represented in the Heritage Series, recognising their sacrifices and service in shaping the country's development.

He challenged the younger generation to build on that legacy by pursuing education, developing entrepreneurial skills and contributing to public service.

President Mahama disclosed that the Heritage Series banknotes had been manufactured using reinforced cotton paper, which is expected to make them more durable than the existing notes.

Addressing concerns about the replacement of the existing currency, the President clarified that the introduction of the Heritage Series would not render the current banknotes invalid.

He said the two series would remain in circulation simultaneously, with commercial banks expected to withdraw the older notes gradually as the new banknotes become more widely available.

“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. They are not displacing the old currency notes. The banks will withdraw the old notes gradually until the new notes take over completely,” he said.

The Bank of Ghana has fixed December 1 for the introduction of the Heritage Series into circulation. Existing banknotes will retain their legal tender status throughout the transition, allowing the public to continue using them for transactions.

The new series combines changes to the physical design of the cedi with a broader emphasis on national history and cultural identity, positioning the currency as both a medium of exchange and a reflection of Ghana's heritage.