The United Nations in Ghana has welcomed the recognition of the late Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, following his inclusion in Ghana’s new Heritage Series banknotes.
The Bank of Ghana launched the Heritage Series on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Bank Square in Accra, with President John Dramani Mahama officially unveiling the notes.
Kofi Annan, who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the UN from 1997 to 2006, is featured on the new GH¢100 note under the theme of Peace.
In a statement signed by the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Zia Choudhury, the UN in Ghana described the honour as a fitting tribute to a distinguished son of Ghana whose contributions transcended national boundaries.
“As the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations (1997–2006), Kofi Annan dedicated his life to advancing peace, human rights, sustainable development and international cooperation. His leadership, vision and commitment to multilateralism left an enduring mark on the United Nations and the global community,” the statement said.
The turquoise GH¢100 note features Annan on the front, with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra on the reverse, alongside the Adinkra symbol ‘Bi Nka Bi’, which represents peaceful coexistence and the need to avoid conflict.
According to the UN, his recognition on Ghana’s national currency is an opportunity to inspire future generations to embrace the values of integrity, service, dialogue and global solidarity that defined his leadership.
“The United Nations in Ghana remains committed to advancing these values and working with Ghana and its people towards a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world,” the statement added.
The Heritage Series features eight prominent Ghanaian personalities across denominations from GH¢1 to GH¢200, replacing the collective portrait of the Big Six with individual figures.
The new notes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026, and will circulate alongside existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender.
