Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, has called for stronger national efforts to protect the Cedi and safeguard Ghana’s monetary independence.
He said the Cedi@60 celebration should be seen not merely as a ceremonial milestone but as a renewed call to defend the country’s economic sovereignty.
Speaking at the anniversary event themed “Sovereignty, Stability, and Resilience” in Accra, Dr. Asiama said the occasion was a time for reflection on Ghana’s financial journey and the collective responsibility to preserve the gains made over the decades.
“Let me be clear, this is not just another policy event. It is a moment for Ghana to pause and reflect — not on what we have built so far, but on what we must now protect and advance,” he stated.
“This anniversary belongs to all of us because when we celebrate the Cedi, we celebrate our journey towards economic self-reliance and national confidence,” he added.
Dr. Asiama recounted Ghana’s landmark decision in 1965 to replace the Ghanaian Pound with the Cedi, describing it as a “powerful declaration” of economic independence and self-determination.
“Sixty years ago, Ghana made a powerful declaration. We said farewell to the Ghanaian Pound and introduced the Cedi, our very own national currency. In doing so, we were not just changing banknotes — we were affirming that Ghana’s independence must include the ability to define and defend our own monetary destiny,” he said.
Reflecting on the Cedi’s evolution, the Governor highlighted key reforms, including redenominations in 1967 and 2007, as well as the addition of security features, commemorative editions, and Adinkra symbols that celebrate Ghanaian heritage.
“Each transformation over the years — from the integration of advanced security features and commemorative notes to the use of indigenous symbols and portraits of our national heroes — reflects Ghana’s story: one of resilience, innovation, and pride,” he remarked.
He emphasised that the Cedi remains more than a means of exchange — it is a symbol of national pride and shared determination.
“Whether it’s exchanged in bustling markets, used to pay salaries, or saved for future dreams, the Cedi stands as a lasting symbol of our journey and our unyielding commitment to shape our own destiny,” Dr. Asiama said.
The Cedi@60 celebration marks six decades since Ghana introduced its national currency, replacing the Ghanaian Pound in 1965, symbolising the nation’s continuous pursuit of economic sovereignty and stability.
Source: Adomonline
ALSO READ: