The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned the public against the mutilation and improper repair of Ghana Cedi banknotes for re-issuance as a business activity.
In a press release dated Tuesday, October 7, 2026, the Central Bank said its attention has been drawn to a video circulating on social media showing individuals repairing and re-joining torn and soiled Ghana Cedi banknotes with adhesive tape for re-issuance.
The BoG strongly cautioned against the practice, stressing that the Ghana Cedi is legal tender and an important national symbol.
“No person should engage in the repair, re-joining or other alteration of mutilated banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation. Such practices undermine the integrity of the currency and may affect its acceptability and proper processing within the cash cycle,” the statement said.
According to the Bank, banknotes that have been taped, glued, stapled or otherwise improperly repaired are unfit for circulation and may damage ATMs and currency processing machines.
Such notes, the BoG warned, may be rejected when presented for payment or exchange, potentially resulting in financial loss to members of the public.
The Bank reiterated that it has the sole mandate for the management of Ghana’s currency, and directed that all mutilated banknotes should be presented to a commercial bank for examination and replacement in accordance with its laid-down procedures.
“Where a mutilated banknote is presented for examination, more than half of the original banknote should be presented,” the release added.
What To Do With Torn Notes:
– Do not tape, glue, staple, re-join or otherwise attempt to repair damaged banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation.
– Take all mutilated or damaged banknotes to a commercial bank for examination and replacement.
The public is also encouraged to handle Cedi notes with care and to report persons engaged in the improper repair or mutilation of banknotes to the Bank of Ghana or law enforcement authorities.
“RESPECT THE CEDI. IT IS OUR NATIONAL PRIDE.”
