Ghana’s journey with the Cedi, its national currency, reached a significant milestone in 2025, marking 60 years since its introduction. This anniversary prompted both celebration and reflection on the currency’s role in the nation’s economic and social fabric. The Bank of Ghana launched the Cedi@60 campaign, a multifaceted initiative aimed at educating the public about responsible currency management and bolstering confidence in the Cedi. This campaign incorporated exhibitions showcasing the Cedi’s evolution, community outreach programs to disseminate information on currency usage, and financial literacy initiatives designed to empower citizens with sound financial practices. The anniversary also provided an opportunity to assess the Cedi’s performance and identify areas for improvement in its management.
Amid the celebratory atmosphere, Prophet Moses Bennisan, a prominent religious leader and author of “Ghana’s Economic Emergence,” injected a crucial message into the national discourse. He urged Ghanaians to treat the Cedi with the respect and dignity it deserves as the symbol of their economic sovereignty. Bennisan lamented the tendency among some Ghanaians to prioritize foreign currencies, often handling the Cedi carelessly while reserving greater care for foreign banknotes. He argued that this subconscious devaluation of their own currency has tangible negative consequences for the national economy. By valuing foreign currencies above their own, Ghanaians inadvertently contribute to the weakening of the Cedi, hindering economic progress.
Prophet Bennisan’s appeal resonated with a sense of patriotism and practicality. He advocated for a fundamental shift in mindset, urging citizens to view the Cedi not merely as paper money, but as a symbol of national pride and economic strength. He challenged Ghanaians to handle their currency with care, avoiding the common practice of crumpling or defacing banknotes. Furthermore, he encouraged businesses to prioritize pricing goods and services in Cedis, reinforcing its status as the legitimate legal tender. These seemingly small acts, when adopted collectively, can significantly contribute to currency stability and foster a stronger sense of national unity.
Bennisan underscored the importance of respecting the Cedi not just as a matter of national pride, but also as a vital component of economic stability. He argued that a strong and stable currency is essential for fostering economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and improving the overall standard of living. When citizens demonstrate confidence in their own currency, it sends a positive signal to international markets and reinforces the nation’s economic credibility. This, in turn, creates a more favorable environment for investment and trade, leading to greater economic opportunities for all.
The Cedi’s 60th anniversary served as a timely reminder of the intricate relationship between a nation’s currency and its people. Prophet Bennisan’s message provided a valuable perspective on this relationship, emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility in upholding the value of the national currency. His call for respect for the Cedi was not simply a patriotic plea, but a pragmatic call to action, emphasizing the critical role each citizen plays in contributing to the nation’s economic wellbeing. By valuing and respecting the Cedi, Ghanaians can collectively contribute to a stronger, more stable, and prosperous future.
The commemoration of the Cedi’s 60th anniversary provided a platform for a broader conversation about Ghana’s economic future. Beyond the celebratory events and public awareness campaigns, it sparked a deeper reflection on the values and attitudes that underpin a nation’s economic strength. Prophet Bennisan’s message resonated powerfully because it connected the seemingly mundane act of handling currency with the broader national aspirations of economic prosperity and self-reliance. His appeal served as a reminder that true economic independence requires not only sound policies and robust institutions, but also a collective sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens. The Cedi, as the tangible representation of Ghana’s economic sovereignty, became a focal point for this vital conversation, underscoring the powerful role that shared values and collective action play in shaping a nation’s destiny.
