Old cedi notes remain legal tender – BoG assures public

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has assured the public that existing cedi banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the newly introduced currency series until they are gradually withdrawn.

The assurance follows the unveiling of an upgraded series of Ghanaian banknotes at the Bank Square in Accra on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

The new notes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.

Speaking at the launch, Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the decision to maintain the existing notes was intended to ensure a smooth transition and prevent disruptions to economic activities.

He also announced that the central bank was working with relevant stakeholders to introduce a new Currency Act to replace the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), which he described as outdated.

The proposed legislation is expected to strengthen measures against counterfeiting, introduce tougher penalties and establish clearer procedures for detecting, authenticating and destroying counterfeit notes.

President John Dramani Mahama, who officially unveiled the new series alongside the Governor, said the cedi represents Ghana’s shared history and national identity.

He urged Ghanaians to recognise the currency as a national symbol that serves citizens across political, religious and regional divides.

The new series is part of efforts to modernise Ghana’s currency while preserving its historical significance.

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