BoG defends new GH¢50 note portrait
Bank of Ghana board member Beatrice Annan says the image of flag designer Theodosia Okoh was adapted from authentic photos for banknote production.
Beatrice Annan, a Board Member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), defended the portrait of Theodosia Salome Okoh on the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote on Thursday, November 12. Mrs Annan stated the image was developed from three authentic photographs of the late artist to meet currency production demands. This clarification follows public discussion, including a claim by Professor Eddie Obeng that the portrait resembled his mother, Dr Letitia Obeng, rather than Mrs Okoh.
Mrs Annan explained on Facebook that the portrait was an engraved artistic representation, not a direct photograph reproduction, designed for strict banknote-printing standards. She said the BoG used two photos of Mrs Okoh in her younger years and one from a later period to create a single image of her as a mature woman. Adjustments were made to hairstyle and outline for clear engraving and security features, while retaining a family resemblance.
The new GH¢50 note, dedicated to Mrs Okoh who designed Ghana’s national flag in 1957, was launched by President John Dramani Mahama on November 12, 2026. The redesigned notes, celebrating prominent Ghanaian figures, are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026. The Bank is engaging with the Okoh family to explain the portrait's creation and address concerns before the new series is widely used.
Why it mattersThe Bank of Ghana is engaging with the Okoh family to explain the portrait on the new GH¢50 note before its December 1, 2026 circulation.