Bank of Ghana Warns Against Cedi Misuse, Cites Prosecution for Money Spraying and Bouquets

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a firm directive to the public regarding the handling of the national currency, warning that the improper use of Ghana Cedi notes and coins is a punishable offense. The central bank highlighted increasingly popular social practices—such as spraying money at events and the creation of "money bouquets" for gifts—as activities that undermine the integrity of the currency. According to the BoG, these actions are not merely social trends but legal violations that could lead to significant penalties for offenders.

Specifically, the BoG pointed to acts such as stepping on banknotes during celebrations, dancing on cash, and defacing currency for decorative purposes as serious infractions. The central bank emphasized that the Ghana Cedi is strictly intended to serve as legal tender for transactions and should not be tampered with or used as a medium for artistic display. These practices contribute to the rapid wear and tear of banknotes, which ultimately forces the state to incur high costs for the printing and replacement of damaged currency.

In response to these violations, the BoG has announced a partnership with law enforcement agencies to monitor public events and social media for evidence of currency abuse. Individuals found guilty of misusing the currency face the risk of arrest and prosecution, which may result in heavy fines, imprisonment, or both. This crackdown aims to restore respect for the national symbol and ensure that the physical condition of the currency is preserved across the country through stricter enforcement of existing laws.

To support this enforcement drive, the central bank has called on the general public to act as whistleblowers by reporting instances of currency misuse to the authorities. By discouraging the public from treating banknotes as confetti or decorative material, the BoG hopes to foster a culture of financial discipline. This move underscores the regulator's commitment to maintaining the dignity of the Cedi and reducing the economic burden associated with the frequent replacement of defaced and worn-out notes.