The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has intensified efforts to protect the integrity of the Ghana cedi by warning the public against the misuse, abuse, and improper handling of banknotes and coins.
The Central Bank says activities such as spraying money at social events, turning banknotes into decorative items, creating money bouquets, writing on currency, tearing notes, and deliberately damaging banknotes are unlawful practices that undermine the value and dignity of Ghana’s legal tender.
The warning is based on provisions contained in the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612) and the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), which give the Bank the mandate to regulate, issue, protect, and maintain confidence in the nation’s currency.
According to the Bank of Ghana, the growing culture of spraying money during weddings, funerals, parties, and other celebrations has contributed to the unnecessary damage of cedi notes. Some individuals also fold, staple, glue, or arrange banknotes into bouquets and other decorative designs, a practice the Bank says is unacceptable.
The BoG explained that currency is produced with advanced security features and at a high cost to the nation. When banknotes are abused or damaged, they become unfit for circulation, forcing the Central Bank to spend additional resources replacing them.
The Bank emphasized that the Ghana cedi is not only a means of exchange but also a symbol of national identity and economic sovereignty. It therefore urged citizens to treat banknotes and coins with the respect they deserve.
The Central Bank has also cautioned event organizers, musicians, celebrities, and members of the public who encourage or participate in money spraying practices to desist from such acts.
The BoG noted that acceptable ways of gifting money during ceremonies include presenting cash in envelopes, transfers through digital payment platforms, or other approved methods that do not damage the physical currency.
As part of its enforcement measures, the Bank of Ghana says it will continue public education campaigns while working with relevant institutions, including law enforcement agencies, to ensure compliance with currency regulations.
The Central Bank further encouraged Ghanaians to report cases of currency abuse and support efforts aimed at preserving the quality and value of the cedi.
The Bank of Ghana believes that protecting the nation’s currency is a shared responsibility and that responsible handling of banknotes will reduce unnecessary replacement costs while strengthening confidence in Ghana’s financial system.
