New Cedi Notes Will Be More Durable, But Handle Them With Care – BoG To Public

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has urged Ghanaians to handle banknotes properly, even as it prepares to introduce more durable cedi notes.

The appeal comes ahead of the launch of the upgraded cedi banknotes, dubbed the Heritage Series, on November 3, 2026.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, September 24, 2026, the Head of Currency at the Bank of Ghana, Dominic Owusu, said although the new notes will last longer than the current ones, the public must still treat them with care.

"Even though these banknotes are going to be more durable, I would always encourage Ghanaians to mind their handling," he said.

Mr Owusu explained that when banknotes are kept clean and in good condition, it helps the central bank keep fit notes in circulation and cuts down the huge cost of printing replacements.

"Once we keep the banknotes clean, it will also reduce the printing cost so that we are able to ensure that we have fair, clean banknotes in circulation," he noted.

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, also said the preservation of the cedi is a shared responsibility. He called on traders, businesses, banks and the general public to stop abusing the currency.

He listed practices such as squeezing and crumpling notes, writing and stamping on them, stapling, spraying at events, and using them for money bouquets as acts that damage the cedi.

"Proper handling will help preserve the quality of our banknotes. It will reduce replacement cost for the central bank, and it will support efficient currency management," Dr Asiama said.

The Bank said the Heritage Series is aimed at strengthening the security, durability and functionality of the local currency. The notes will have enhanced security features and a reinforced cotton-based substrate to make them stronger, while bearing designs that reflect Ghana's heritage, culture and national identity.

The central bank also reiterated its Clean Note Policy, stressing that the campaign for proper handling applies to both old and new notes.

The BoG assured the public that the introduction of the Heritage Series will not make the existing cedi notes invalid. Both the old and new notes will co-circulate as legal tender, and there will be no need to rush to exchange current notes after the launch.