The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has clarified concerns surrounding the portrait of Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh, designer of Ghana's national flag, featured on the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote.
The BoG explained that the portrait was developed using different photographs of Mrs Okoh and not a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng. The GH¢50 Heritage Series banknotes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
The central bank further explained that certain artistic adjustments were made during the production process, including replacing Mrs Okoh's familiar head-tie with a hairstyle commonly associated with her during that period. These adjustments, the Bank noted, were necessary to meet the technical and security requirements of currency production.
The Bank expressed appreciation to the family of Mrs Okoh for their constructive engagement.
The Bank's clarification comes after some members of the public suggested that the portrait on the banknote resembled Dr Letitia Obeng, Mrs Okoh's sister, rather than Mrs Okoh herself. The BoG assured the public that it remains committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on Ghana's currency are represented with dignity and respect.
The introduction of the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote is part of the Bank's efforts to honour Ghana's national heroes and preserve the country's cultural heritage. The Bank has also announced plans to introduce a new GH¢100 Heritage Banknote featuring Kofi Annan, the former UN Secretary-General.
The Bank's decision to feature Mrs Okoh on the new banknote has been widely praised, with many Ghanaians commending the Bank for recognizing her contributions to the country's national identity. The Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to honouring Ghana's national heroes and preserving the country's cultural heritage.