The Bank of Ghana has warned the public not to use cedi banknotes as bouquets or hampers when gifting others.
According to the statement, the currency was created to be used as a medium of exchange for the purchase of goods and services.
Mr Dominic Owusu, Director of the Central Bank’s Currency Department, told journalists yesterday (March 30, 2023) that any other use of the currency was illegal and would result in prosecution.
He stated that the bank had observed some people using cedi notes as bouquets and hampers as gifts during weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations, which he stated must be prohibited.
He claimed that, in addition to being illegal, such actions made it easier for the notes to spoil or be defaced.
Given that spoiled and worn-out notes are replaced at a cost, he claimed that such acts harmed the central bank’s operations.
Mr Owusu was speaking to journalists about how to preserve the currency as part of activities commemorating Ghana Month in March.
He stated that the local currency was an important symbol of the country and that efforts to maintain its quality and cleanliness should be prioritised by all.
