The United Nations (UN) in Ghana has praised the decision to honour former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan by featuring his image on the Bank of Ghana’s newly unveiled GH¢100 banknote. In a statement dated Thursday, November 12, 2026, and signed by the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, Zia Choudhury, the organisation described the recognition as a fitting tribute to an eminent Ghanaian whose influence and contributions extended beyond the country’s borders.
The UN highlighted Mr Annan’s distinguished service as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations, a position he held from 1997 to 2006, during which he championed peace, human rights, sustainable development and international cooperation. It noted that his leadership, vision and dedication to multilateralism had made a lasting impact on the United Nations and the international 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 organisation added that featuring Mr Annan on the banknote would serve as an inspiration to younger generations, encouraging them to uphold the principles of integrity, service, dialogue and global solidarity that characterised his leadership.
The GH¢100 denomination celebrates Ghana’s role in international peacekeeping and diplomacy, with Mr Annan’s portrait appearing prominently on its front.
On the reverse side is the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, alongside the Adinkra symbol Bi Nka Bi, which represents peaceful coexistence and discourages conflict. The banknote is part of the Bank of Ghana’s newly introduced Heritage Series, comprising eight denominations that showcase notable Ghanaian personalities, historical landmarks and traditional symbols reflecting the country’s cultural identity and history.
The eight banknotes were officially unveiled by President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, November 12, 2026. Each denomination highlights a significant aspect of Ghanaian society, including commerce, religious diversity, education, justice, culture, freedom, international peace and national sovereignty. Addressing the launch ceremony, President Mahama said the personalities, landmarks and cultural symbols featured on the new currency would help introduce younger generations to Ghana’s history and strengthen their appreciation of the nation’s heritage.
The UN in Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the ideals embodied in Mr Annan’s legacy and collaborating with Ghana and its people to build a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world.
