The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators and businesses across the country that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment for goods and services is a criminal offence punishable by law.
In a public notice dated July 22, 2026, the central bank expressed concern over what it described as the widespread and persistent rejection of the 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 pesewa coins, as well as the GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins, despite their continued status as legal tender.
The notice, signed by the Secretary of the Bank, Aimee Vyda Quashie, follows an earlier directive issued on July 14, 2026, which addressed the misuse, abuse and illegal handling of Ghana cedi banknotes and coins.
While the previous notice focused on the physical abuse of the country’s currency, the latest directive targets the unlawful refusal to accept coins during commercial transactions.
According to the Bank of Ghana, all coins issued by the central bank remain lawful currency under the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612), as amended, the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), and other applicable laws.
The Bank stressed that none of the existing coin denominations has been demonetised or withdrawn from circulation and must therefore be accepted in the settlement of debts and payment for goods and services throughout the country.
It emphasised that no trader, transport operator, business owner or individual has the authority to reject Ghana cedi coins simply because they consider them inconvenient, of low value or based on personal preference.
The central bank further reminded the public that refusing to sell goods or provide services because a customer chooses to pay with legal tender coins constitutes an offence under the Currency Act.
It cautioned that anyone convicted of such an offence could face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.
The notice also makes it clear that individuals who instruct or encourage others to reject coins including business owners who direct their employees not to accept them are equally liable under the law and will face the same penalties as those who commit the offence directly.
Additionally, the Bank stated that any person found committing the offence may be arrested without a warrant.
To ensure compliance, the Bank of Ghana said it will collaborate closely with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to enforce the law.
It warned that businesses and individuals who continue to reject coins risk arrest, prosecution, fines and possible imprisonment.
The central bank also urged members of the public who experience difficulties using Ghana cedi coins during transactions to report such incidents to the nearest Bank of Ghana office, the Ghana Police Service, or through the Bank’s official communication channels.
The Bank called on all Ghanaians, businesses and institutions to support efforts to preserve confidence in the national currency by accepting and handling all denominations of the Ghana cedi responsibly and in accordance with the law.
By 1960news.com
