The Bank of Ghana has clarified concerns surrounding the portrait of Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh, designer of Ghana’s national flag, featured on the newly introduced GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote.
In a statement, the central bank confirmed that the portrait was developed using different photographs of Mrs Okoh herself and not from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng.
According to the Bank, the photographs were used to produce an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing. However, certain modifications were made during the process to meet the technical and security requirements of currency production.
The Bank explained that these adjustments included replacing Mrs Okoh’s familiar head-tie with a hairstyle commonly worn during the period. It noted that the adaptations contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and the resemblance to her sister, Dr Obeng.
The central bank expressed appreciation to the Okoh family for their constructive engagement and acknowledged the public’s interest in preserving Ghana’s national heritage.
It further reaffirmed that the portrait was intended to honour Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh and recognise her invaluable contribution to Ghana’s national identity, adding that it remains committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on the country’s currency are represented with dignity and respect.
The GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote, alongside the other newly introduced Heritage Series denominations, is scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
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