President John Dramani Mahama says the Bank of Ghana’s newly launched Heritage Series banknotes will serve as a reminder of Ghana’s history and help younger generations connect with the country’s national heritage.
Launching the banknotes on Thursday, November 12, 2026, he said the historical personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols displayed on the notes would stimulate curiosity and encourage young people to understand the country’s past.
“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 noted that the banknotes would extend the teaching of national history beyond formal learning spaces and into everyday activities.
“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 said.
The President also recognised the contributions of the historical figures featured on the currency, describing their service and sacrifices as part of the country’s national journey.
He challenged young Ghanaians to build on that legacy through education, enterprise and public service.
“To our young people, I say that you too have a place in this story. Through your learning, enterprise, and service, you will shape what Ghana becomes,” he said.
Beyond their commemorative features, the new banknotes have been designed with physical changes intended to improve their use and lifespan.
President Mahama said the notes were produced from reinforced cotton paper to make them more durable than the existing currency. Their smaller size is also expected to make them easier to handle.
He clarified that the introduction of the Heritage Series would not result in the immediate withdrawal of the current banknotes.
The two series will circulate together, with banks gradually withdrawing the old notes as the new ones take over.
“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 scheduled December 1, 2026, for the new banknotes to enter circulation. The existing notes will continue to be accepted as legal tender throughout the transition.
