Money, they say, makes the world go round. But it also tells a deeper story—a story of independence, leadership, and national identity.

As part of our JoyNews Ghana Month series, we take a step back in time to explore the people behind the Ghana Cedi.

At the Artist Alliance Gallery, the General Manager, Nii Glover, walks us through the evolution of Ghana’s currency, revealing the historical shifts that have shaped the notes and coins we use today.

"We used to spend pounds under British colonial rule until we gained independence. In 1966, under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, we introduced our currency—the first cedi—featuring his portrait.”

However, he stated that Dr Nkrumah’s image on Ghana’s money was short-lived following his overthrow in 1966, where his portrait was removed from the Cedi, reflecting the shifting political landscape and a rewriting of history.

Over the years, Ghana’s currency has become a platform for honouring national figures.

The 50 pesewas coin, for instance, features Rebecca Naa Dedei Aryeetey, a businesswoman and activist who played a key role in financing Ghana’s independence struggle.

Beyond individuals, Ghana’s banknotes also highlight national landmarks and industries. The Larabanga Mosque, cocoa farms, and the Akosombo Dam all appear on different denominations, symbolising Ghana’s heritage and economic strength.

One of the most significant changes to Ghana’s money came in 2007 under former President John Agyekum Kufuor, when the Bank of Ghana redenominated the Cedi, knocking off four zeros.

This meant that the old 10,000 cedi note became today’s 1 cedi—a move aimed at simplifying transactions and strengthening the economy.

Through every redesign, Ghana’s currency has remained a reflection of its history, struggles, and triumphs.