Cedi@60 celebration kicks off October 28

The nation will mark 60 years of its currency, the cedi, with a year-long series of events beginning October 28 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

The celebration, themed “60 Years of the Cedi: A Symbol of Sovereignty, Stability, and Economic Resilience,” will highlight the currency’s role in shaping the nation’s economic journey since its introduction in 1965.

The event will be launched by President John Dramani Mahama, who will serve as the special guest of honour. The celebration comes at a time when discussions around the cedi’s performance, exchange rate stability, and inflation continue to dominate public debate, making the anniversary both symbolic and timely.

The cedi was officially introduced on July 19, 1965, replacing the Ghana pound as part of efforts to assert economic independence after colonial rule. Since then, the currency has undergone several reforms and redenominations in response to macroeconomic shifts, inflationary pressures, and policy realignments.

Officials say the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the evolution of Ghana’s monetary system and the broader role of the Bank of Ghana in maintaining stability.

The Cedi@60 celebration seeks to deepen public understanding of monetary policy and promote responsible currency handling. The campaign will also reinforce the central bank’s Clean Note initiative, which encourages proper treatment of banknotes to preserve their lifespan and integrity.

A key feature of the commemoration will be the Cedi Van Regional Roadshow, which will travel across the country to educate the public on the history of Ghana’s currency, the importance of financial literacy, and the security features embedded in the notes. The outreach effort will be complemented by exhibitions, stakeholder engagements, and youth-focused activities such as essay, music, and art competitions.

The Bank of Ghana also plans to host an international Currency Conference that will bring together central bankers, academics, and private sector players to discuss monetary innovation, currency design, and the future of money in the digital age.

The initiative aims not only to celebrate the cedi’s legacy but also to rebuild confidence in the currency amid changing economic conditions.

Observers note that while the cedi remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economic identity, it has also mirrored the country’s fiscal challenges over the decades—from the structural adjustments of the 1980s to recent inflationary pressures. The 60th anniversary provides a platform to explore how monetary policy can better support long-term stability and growth.

The celebration is expected to engage citizens nationwide through participatory events designed to promote national pride and shared ownership of Ghana’s financial narrative.

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