The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators, and businesses that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins during transactions is against the law and could result in criminal prosecution.
The central bank says all Ghana cedi coins, including the 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pesewa denominations, as well as the GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins, remain legal tender and must be accepted for the payment of goods and services.
The warning follows reports of the widespread refusal by some businesses and commercial transport operators to accept coins from customers.
Coin Refusal Is an Offence
In a public notice issued on July 22, 2026, the Bank of Ghana said rejecting legal coins because of inconvenience, low value, or personal preference violates Ghana’s currency laws.
The Bank stressed that none of the coins currently in circulation have been withdrawn or demonetized and therefore remain valid for all financial transactions.
According to the BoG, refusing to provide goods or services simply because a customer is paying with legal coins constitutes an offense under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242).
Offenders Risk Criminal Sanctions
The central bank warned that anyone convicted of unlawfully rejecting Ghana cedi coins could face a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
It added that individuals who encourage or instruct others to reject legal coins may face the same penalties.
Read Also: New Fisheries Reforms Target Illegal Fishing
The Bank also noted that offenders may be arrested without a warrant under the provisions of the law.
Police to Support Enforcement
To improve compliance, the Bank of Ghana says it will work closely with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to enforce the law.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to report instances where traders, transport operators or businesses unlawfully reject Ghana cedi coins.
BoG Calls for Responsible Use of National Currency
The Bank has urged businesses, institutions and the general public to accept and handle all denominations of the Ghana cedi responsibly.
According to the BoG, respecting all legal tender is essential to maintaining confidence in the country’s currency and ensuring the smooth operation of the national payment system.
READ FULL STATEMENT BELOW:
Source: Afote Asomdwoe Laryea/ATLFMNEWS
