Bank of Ghana Launches ‘The Cedi’ App to Help Public Verify Heritage Banknotes, Assist Visually Impaired

The Bank of Ghana has launched a mobile application called “The Cedi” to help the public learn the security features of the new Heritage Series banknotes and to improve accessibility for persons with visual impairments. Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama announced the app at Thursday’s launch in Accra, alongside plans for a nationwide education campaign in major local languages ahead of the notes entering circulation on December 1, 2026.

The application, listed on Google Play as “The Cedi,” offers previews of all denominations from GH¢1 to GH¢200, with an interface inviting users to “swipe and tap” to explore the currency . It is designed to familiarise Ghanaians with the redesigned notes and their security characteristics before they enter circulation .

According to the Governor, the app forms part of the Bank’s efforts to strengthen public education on the national currency and make information about the new banknotes more accessible . Dr Asiama said the initiative also seeks to support persons with visual impairments, reflecting the Bank’s commitment to making currency education more inclusive .

How the App Works

The Android listing identifies the developer as 3D Interactive STHLM AB, with a download size of 92 MB and an icon featuring a yellow cedi symbol against a blue background . Preview images display banknotes ranging from GH¢1 to GH¢200 alongside instructions for exploring the currency.

Users can swipe and tap through the denominations to learn about their designs and security features. The app includes a scanning function that allows users to point their phone’s camera at a supported banknote, which then recognises the note and displays related educational information. According to the developer, both scanning and educational content work offline after installation, and camera access is optional .

However, the information reviewed does not confirm whether the app can scan a physical banknote and automatically determine its authenticity. The launch announcement also did not explain the specific accessibility functions available to users with visual impairments . The scanning function should be treated as an educational tool rather than confirmation that a physical note is genuine.

Nationwide Campaign in Local Languages

Beyond the app, Dr Asiama announced plans for a nationwide public education campaign across all regions and in major local languages to help Ghanaians recognise genuine banknotes and adopt responsible currency-handling practices . The campaign will explain how to identify the Heritage Series notes, understand their security features, and handle the currency responsibly .

The Governor has urged Ghanaians to value and protect the cedi, describing it as a symbol of the country’s identity and aspirations. “Let us all protect it, let us value it, and let us take pride in it,” he said. “Not just because it bears the name of Ghana but because it represents the aspirations of our people and the future that we are building together” .

Background: A Transition Built on Education

The Heritage Series, which features enhanced security, improved durability and smaller sizes, will enter circulation on December 1, 2026, alongside existing banknotes, which remain legal tender . The notes feature national heroes, historic sites, monuments and, for the first time, Adinkra symbols .

The introduction of the app and the education campaign reflect lessons from past currency rollouts. When the GH¢200 note was introduced, uncalibrated ATMs failed to accept the denomination, causing operational difficulties . The interval between Thursday’s launch and the December 1 circulation date provides time for public education and for commercial banks to calibrate ATMs and cash-handling systems to recognise the new notes .

The Bank of Ghana has stressed that the public does not need to rush to exchange existing currency. “There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the Heritage Series,” the bank advised . Banks will gradually withdraw old notes as the new ones take over .

The launch comes as the Bank of Ghana approaches its 70th anniversary on March 4, 2027 . The Cedi App forms part of the Bank’s broader efforts to modernise currency management, strengthen public confidence and promote greater awareness of Ghana’s national currency .