Head of Currency Management at the Bank of Ghana, Dominic Owusu, says the introduction of the Ghana cedi in 1965 marked the beginning of true economic independence, a milestone that should be celebrated with pride.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show ahead of the official launch of the Cedi@60 commemoration at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday, he explained that political independence alone did not complete Ghana’s freedom story.

“Today is the rebirth of Ghana because Ghana achieved its economic sovereignty, total economic sovereignty on the 19th of July 1965,” he said.

Mr Owusu noted that while 6th March 1957 remains the landmark date for political independence, the establishment of the Bank of Ghana, the day before independence — on 4th March 1957 — began the critical journey toward managing the country’s own currency and financial affairs.

He stressed that both forms of independence must be acknowledged.

“There are two things for independence — economic independence and political independence,” he stated, adding that Tuesday’s anniversary reflects on that progress and the role of the cedi in Ghana’s national identity and financial stability.

The Cedi@60 celebration is being held under the theme: “60 Years of the Cedi: A Symbol of Sovereignty, Stability, and Economic Resilience.”

The event brings together policymakers, bankers and economic actors to highlight achievements in currency management and discuss strategies to maintain stability going forward.