‘The cedi knows no political parties’ – Mahama calls for collective responsibility

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to put aside political differences and take collective responsibility for protecting the cedi, insisting that the national currency belongs to everyone and should be valued beyond party lines.

He said the cedi transcended political affiliations and belonged to all Ghanaians, stressing that its value and usefulness depended on the collective confidence and trust citizens placed in the national currency.

“The cedi knows no political parties. Its usefulness rests on the confidence that we Ghanaians place in it,” he said.

The President made the appeal on Thursday, November 12, during the launch of the Bank of Ghana's Heritage Series banknotes at the Bank Square in Accra.

Speaking under the theme, “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last,” he used the symbolism of two crocodiles joined together and sharing one stomach to illustrate why collective responsibility was important in national affairs.

He said although citizens might have different political opinions and approaches to national issues, the consequences of their decisions were often shared.

“That lesson of the crocodiles remains relevant in Ghana today. We may approach questions from different perspectives, but the consequences of our choices extend beyond ourselves,” he stated.

Dr Mahama said the lesson was particularly relevant to the protection of the cedi, arguing that maintaining confidence in the currency required a collective commitment from citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.

He also drew attention to the cultural and historical significance of the Heritage Series, explaining that the new banknotes were intended to reflect Ghana's shared identity and the experiences that connect its people.

According to him, the currency represents more than its monetary function, as the historical personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols featured on the notes also tell the story of the country.

The President further described the cedi as an informal ambassador for Ghana, noting that its design could introduce the country's history and culture to people beyond its borders.

“In that sense, our currency serves as a quiet ambassador for our nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Heritage Series introduces improvements to the physical features of Ghana's banknotes, including enhanced security specifications designed to strengthen protection against counterfeiting.

The Heritage Series is expected to circulate on December 1, alongside the existing banknotes as the central bank manages a gradual transition to the new currency.