The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has clarified concerns surrounding the portrait of Mrs. Theodosia Salome Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, featured on the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote.
In a press release issued on 13 November 2026, the Central Bank explained that the portrait was created from different photographs of Mrs. Okoh and not from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng, as had been suggested in some public discussions.
According to the Bank, the image was developed as an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing, using multiple reference photographs of Mrs. Okoh.
The BoG noted that, during the design process, certain artistic and technical adjustments were made to satisfy the security and production requirements of currency printing.
Among the modifications was the replacement of Mrs Okoh’s familiar head tie with a hairstyle that was common during the period being depicted.
The Bank acknowledged that these adaptations may have contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and the resulting resemblance to her sister, Dr Obeng.
Despite the concerns raised, the Bank reaffirmed that the portrait is intended solely to honour Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh for her invaluable contribution to Ghana’s national identity through the design of the country’s flag.
“The Bank is committed to ensuring that the distinguished personalities featured on Ghana’s currency are represented with dignity and respect,” the statement said.
The Bank also expressed appreciation to the Okoh family for their constructive engagement and thanked the public for its interest in preserving Ghana’s national heritage.
The Heritage Series banknotes are scheduled to officially enter circulation on 1 December 2026.
