Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama has announced that the upgraded Ghana Cedi Heritage Series banknotes will begin circulating on December 1, 2026.
The new notes will be introduced alongside the existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender during the transition.
Dr. Asiama announced the date at the official launch of the Heritage Series at the Bank Square in Accra on Thursday, November 12, 2026, explaining that the phased introduction would give individuals and businesses sufficient time to adjust to the redesigned currency.
“The Heritage Series will be introduced into circulation from 1 December 2026, and will circulate alongside the existing series, which remains legal tender,” he said.
He said the approach was intended to prevent disruptions to economic activities as the public becomes familiar with the new banknotes.
“This approach will allow the public and businesses to adjust smoothly to the Heritage banknotes without unnecessary disruption to economic activity,” the Governor stated.
Dr Asiama also assured the public that the Bank would manage the changeover to protect the efficiency of payment systems and sustain confidence in the Cedi.
“The Bank remains committed to a well-managed transition that supports continuity in payments and reinforces confidence in the cedi,” he added.
The new banknotes feature enhanced security specifications and improved durability. They are also smaller and more portable, making them easier to handle and carry.
The designs incorporate national heroes, historic sites, monuments and Adinkra symbols, reflecting Ghana’s history and cultural identity.
President John Dramani Mahama, who officially launched the series, said the new notes would circulate alongside the existing ones, which would be withdrawn gradually by banks until the transition is completed.
The introduction of the Heritage Series forms part of the Bank of Ghana’s efforts to modernise the country’s currency as the institution approaches 70 years of service.
