BoG Explains Changes to Theodosia Okoh’s Portrait on New GH¢50 Note
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has explained that changes made to the portrait of Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh on the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote were part of the technical process of producing currency, following public concerns that the image closely resembles her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng.
The Central Bank said the portrait was developed from different photographs of Mrs Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, and not from a photograph of Dr Obeng.
In a press release issued on November 13, 2026, the Bank said the photographs were used to create an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing.
It explained that adjustments were made during the process, including replacing Mrs Okoh’s familiar head-tie with a hairstyle common during the period, to meet the technical and security requirements of currency production.
These changes, it acknowledged, contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and the resemblance to Dr Obeng.
The clarification follows concerns surrounding the identity and accuracy of the portrait selected to honour one of Ghana’s distinguished national figures on the new banknote.
The Bank said it appreciated the constructive engagement of the Okoh family and public interest in preserving the country’s national heritage.
It reaffirmed that the portrait was intended to honour Mrs Okoh and her contribution to Ghana’s national identity, adding that it remained committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on the country’s currency were represented with dignity and respect.
The GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote is scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
The clarification comes ahead of the new notes’ introduction into circulation, with the Bank seeking to address questions surrounding the representation of the personalities featured in the Heritage Series.
