Mahama urges Ghanaians to unite in protecting the cedi beyond party lines

President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to set aside political differences and work together to protect the national currency, saying confidence in the cedi must be a shared responsibility.

He said the currency belonged to all citizens and its strength depended largely on the trust and confidence Ghanaians placed in it, irrespective of their political affiliations.

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

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

Speaking on the theme, “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last,” he used the image of two crocodiles joined together and sharing one stomach to explain the importance of collective responsibility in national development.

Dr Mahama noted that although Ghanaians might hold different political views and disagree on national issues, the consequences of their decisions ultimately affected everyone.

He said the principle was particularly important in efforts to maintain confidence in the cedi, which required a united commitment from citizens across the political divide.

The President also highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the new banknotes, saying their design reflected Ghana’s shared identity and the experiences that bind the country together.

He explained that the currency served a purpose beyond financial transactions, as the personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols featured on the notes communicated aspects of Ghana’s history to the world.

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

The Heritage Series also incorporates improved physical features and enhanced security specifications intended to strengthen the banknotes against counterfeiting.

The new notes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, alongside the existing banknotes, as the Bank of Ghana undertakes a gradual transition to the redesigned currency.

READ ALSO:

Heritage Series: Check out the new Cedi notes unveiled by BoG

Economist hails Mahama’s ‘New Economy’ agenda but seeks clarity on funding