The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced an upcoming milestone in the nation’s financial history—the 60th anniversary of the Ghana cedi, set to be commemorated on July 19, 2025.
According to a statement released by the central bank on May 13, this occasion will mark six decades since the cedi replaced the Ghanaian pound as the country’s sole legal tender.
The introduction of the cedi on July 19, 1965, was a significant shift in Ghana’s economic narrative. It signaled a bold move towards complete economic independence following the country’s political liberation. The BoG remarked that “the cedi has remained a strong symbol of Ghana’s economic sovereignty and development,” reinforcing its central role in the national identity and economic trajectory.
As Ghana’s primary medium of exchange, the cedi has served as more than just currency; it has stood as a representation of national pride and self-determination. Its role in underpinning trade, investment, and day-to-day transactions continues to be fundamental to the functioning of the Ghanaian economy.
Evolution Through the Decades
In its 60-year journey, the cedi has seen numerous transformations in both form and policy direction. From its original paper notes and coins to the sophisticated security features of today’s currency, each change has aimed at improving efficiency, trust, and resilience.
“To adapt to the changing demands of the Ghanaian economy, the cedi has evolved through several modifications in form and policy direction over the last 60 years. Ghana’s tenacity, innovation and quest for economic stability are all embodied in the cedi’s reforms, from the first notes and coins to the safe currency we use today.”
BoG
The cedi’s resilience has also mirrored Ghana’s broader economic challenges and achievements, reflecting periods of inflation, currency redenomination, and structural reforms, all of which demonstrate the central bank’s effort to safeguard the integrity of the national currency.
Commemorative Activities Nationwide
To mark this remarkable milestone, the Bank of Ghana has outlined plans for a series of nationwide activities that will span from July to December 2025. These include official launch events, public exhibitions, educational campaigns, and stakeholder forums aimed at enhancing public understanding of the cedi’s historical and economic significance.
“This anniversary offers an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on the history of the cedi, to celebrate the progress made, and to reaffirm our collective responsibility to protect the value and integrity of the currency. In addition to being a medium of exchange, the cedi is a symbol of our pride, heritage and shared aspirations for a prosperous future.”
BoG
The commemorative events will seek to deepen the public’s connection to the currency and foster a sense of collective ownership and responsibility. Through exhibitions and educational initiatives, younger generations will also gain insights into how the cedi has shaped Ghana’s economic journey.
As part of its vision for a memorable and inclusive celebration, the Bank of Ghana is calling on all Ghanaians, institutions, organisations, and development partners to take part in the festivities. The BoG reiterated its dedication to promoting a stable and robust currency, noting that, “The Bank of Ghana extends an invitation to the public, institutions, organisations, stakeholders and development partners to join the Bank in celebrating this important milestone.”
In its concluding statement, the central bank affirmed its mandate to ensure macroeconomic stability. “The Bank of Ghana is committed to maintaining a stable cedi in pursuit of stability in the general level of prices,” it stated, underlining the institution’s role in economic stewardship.
READ ALSO: Presidency Acknowledges Petition on YEA-Zoomlion Contract, Assures Action
