Ghanaians will not be required to immediately surrender their existing banknotes following the introduction of the new Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, President John Dramani Mahama has assured.
The President says the upgraded banknotes will circulate alongside the existing currency, with the Bank of Ghana expected to withdraw the older notes gradually as the new series becomes established.
Speaking at the official unveiling of the Heritage Series at the Bank Square, President Mahama explained that the introduction of the new currency was intended to improve durability, convenience and security without disrupting everyday transactions.
“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. They are not displacing the old currency notes,” he stated.
He added that the Bank would progressively withdraw the existing notes until the upgraded series eventually replaced them.
The clarification comes as the central bank prepares to introduce the Heritage Series into circulation from December 1, 2026, following its official unveiling.
The new banknotes incorporate enhanced security features, smaller dimensions and reinforced cotton paper designed to withstand frequent handling and last longer in circulation.
President Mahama explained that the improvements would make the notes easier to handle while extending their lifespan compared with the existing currency.
He commended the Governor, Board, management and staff of the Bank of Ghana for successfully developing the upgraded series.
The President also praised the Ghanaian professionals behind the Bank’s internally developed currency management systems, describing their work as evidence of the country’s growing technical and institutional capabilities.
He encouraged the central bank to continue investing in local expertise as it approaches its 70th anniversary in March 2027.
President Mahama maintained that the modernisation of Ghana’s currency infrastructure remained essential to preserving public confidence in the cedi and strengthening the country’s economic sovereignty.
