BoG warns public against spraying, decorating with Ghana cedi notes

The Bank of Ghana has warned the public against using Ghana cedi banknotes for money bouquets, money cakes, spraying at social events and other unconventional purposes.

The warning follows the arrest of seven people in Accra in a joint enforcement exercise involving the central bank and the Ghana Police Service.

The suspects were allegedly using Ghana cedi notes to produce money bouquets and cakes for commercial purposes.

Head of the Statistics Office at the Currency Management Department of the Bank of Ghana, Dinah Bonzi, said the arrests were part of efforts to protect the integrity of the country’s currency and enforce laws governing the handling of banknotes and coins.

She said the practice of using currency to create decorative items for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other occasions amounts to the misuse and abuse of the Ghana cedi.

Ms. Bonzi warned that individuals involved in such activities, as well as those who assist or promote them, could be arrested and prosecuted.

“Today’s arrest should serve as a clear warning to the public. Let us all handle the Ghana cedi with dignity,” she said.

The Bank of Ghana has previously cautioned against several practices involving the improper handling of banknotes, including spraying money at events, creating money bouquets and decorations, scattering or stepping on currency, writing on notes and altering banknotes.

The central bank said such practices can contribute to the physical deterioration of banknotes and undermine the proper circulation and use of the currency.

According to Ms. Bonzi, the seven people arrested in Accra will face prosecution, with fines or imprisonment among the possible sanctions under the law.

The Bank of Ghana has therefore urged individuals, event organisers and businesses to stop using Ghana cedi notes for decorative or other purposes that constitute misuse or abuse of the currency.