The United Nations (UN) has welcomed the decision to feature the late former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, on the Bank of Ghana’s(BoG) newly introduced GH¢100 banknote, describing it as a fitting tribute to a distinguished Ghanaian whose influence reached far beyond the country’s borders.
In a statement issued on Thursday, November 12, 2026, and signed by the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Zia Choudhury, the UN said the honour recognises a “distinguished son of Ghana” whose contributions transcended national boundaries.
A life devoted to peace and cooperation
Annan served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006, dedicating his life to advancing peace, human rights, sustainable development and international cooperation.
According to the statement, his leadership, vision and commitment to multilateralism left an enduring mark on both the United Nations and the wider global community.
“His recognition on Ghana’s national currency is a fitting tribute to a distinguished son of Ghana whose contributions transcended national boundaries,” the statement said.
The UN added that the honour also presents an opportunity to inspire future generations to embrace the values of integrity, service, dialogue and global solidarity that defined Mr. Annan’s leadership.
The GH¢100 note
The GH¢100 denomination celebrates Ghana’s contribution to international peace and diplomacy, with Mr. Annan featured on the front.
The reverse side references the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, while the Adinkra symbol Bi Nka Bi — literally “bite not one another” — representing peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of conflict, is woven into the design.
Part of the Heritage Series
The note forms part of the Bank of Ghana’s newly launched Heritage Series, which features eight prominent Ghanaian personalities, historical landmarks and traditional symbols celebrating the nation’s history and cultural identity.
The eight denominations were unveiled by President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, November 12, 2026, with each highlighting a different facet of Ghanaian society — commerce, religious diversity, education, justice, culture, freedom, international peace and national sovereignty.
Speaking at the launch, President Mahama said the historical personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols featured on the banknotes would help bring Ghana’s history closer to younger generations and deepen their appreciation of the country’s heritage.
The UN in Ghana, meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the values embodied in Mr. Annan’s legacy, and to working with Ghana and its people towards “a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world.”
By Gifty Boateng