The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned the public against the misuse and abuse of the Ghana cedi, warning that offenders risk arrest, prosecution, fines or imprisonment under the country’s laws.
The central bank said practices such as spraying banknotes at social events, making money bouquets, stepping on notes, defacing banknotes and coins, or using the currency for decorative purposes were unlawful and undermined the dignity and integrity of Ghana’s legal tender.
Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, said the cedi was more than a medium of exchange, describing it as a national symbol that reflected the country’s sovereignty, economic stability and collective identity.
He said every citizen had a responsibility to handle the currency with care to ensure its longevity and maintain public confidence in the financial system.
“The cedi is a symbol of our national pride and economic resilience. It must be treated with dignity and respect at all times,” the Governor said.
The BoG explained that deliberate acts that damage or deface banknotes and coins increase the cost of currency replacement, placing an unnecessary financial burden on the economy.
It noted that replacing damaged notes required significant public resources that could otherwise be directed towards national development.
The central bank reminded the public that the Currency Act prohibits the wilful destruction, mutilation or defacement of Ghana’s legal tender, and that violations attract sanctions, including fines and imprisonment.
The BoG urged event organisers, individuals, businesses and institutions to refrain from practices that disrespect the currency and instead adopt responsible ways of celebrating special occasions.
It called on the public to keep banknotes clean, avoid writing or stapling them, and ensure they were stored and handled properly to extend their lifespan.
The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the cedi and appealed to all Ghanaians to support efforts to preserve the national currency for future generations.
