The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned the public against the practice of spraying cedi notes at social gatherings, creating money bouquets for celebrations, and other forms of misuse of the national currency, warning that offenders could face legal action.

The central bank said individuals found engaging in such acts could be arrested and prosecuted, with possible penalties including fines and imprisonment.

The warning was contained in a notice issued by the Bank on July 14, 2026, and signed by its Secretary, Aimee Vyda Quashie, as part of efforts to promote the proper handling of Ghana’s banknotes and coins.

According to the BoG, it has observed a growing trend of practices that undermine the quality and integrity of the cedi, including the use of currency notes for decorative and celebratory purposes.

The Bank explained that activities such as creating money bouquets for weddings, birthdays, graduations and other occasions, as well as spraying or throwing cedi notes during events, are considered improper use of the currency and are prohibited under Ghanaian law.

It added that using banknotes and coins as ornaments, including for artwork, jewellery or beauty designs, amounts to tampering with and defacing the currency.

The BoG further warned against other practices such as stepping on or dancing on cedi notes, scattering them on the floor, writing on them, tearing, crumpling, staining or altering their appearance.

It also prohibited the use of images of Ghana’s currency for commercial or other purposes without approval from the central bank.

On coins, the Bank cautioned the public against altering their appearance through activities such as colouring, filing, cutting, silvering or gilding. It noted that buying or selling coins above their face value is also prohibited.

The central bank said anyone found possessing scraps or parts of coins obtained through unauthorised alterations could also face legal consequences.

The BoG stressed that Ghana’s currency is issued strictly as legal tender and should be handled in a manner that preserves its usefulness and value.

It noted that significant public resources are committed annually to printing banknotes and minting coins, urging the public to treat the cedi responsibly to reduce avoidable costs.