Bank of Ghana cracks down on currency abuse: Money bouquets, spraying at events now illegal

The Bank of Ghana has issued a stern warning to the public about the misuse and abuse of the national currency, signalling that law enforcement will now actively pursue offenders engaged in practices such as spraying money at events, creating decorative money bouquets, and defacing banknotes. The central bank has made clear that these activities are not harmless celebrations but serious violations of the law that carry criminal penalties including arrest, prosecution, substantial fines and imprisonment.

The warning comes in response to a rising trend of currency abuse at social occasions. Money bouquets—decorative arrangements of banknotes commonly given as gifts at weddings, birthdays and graduations—have become increasingly popular in Ghana's celebrations. Similarly, the practice of spraying money at events, scattering notes on the ground, dancing on currency and using banknotes to create jewellery and other decorative items has grown more common. While these customs may reflect generosity or festive spirit, the Bank of Ghana views them as fundamentally damaging to the integrity and functionality of the national currency.

What the law prohibits

Beyond spraying and money bouquets, the BoG has identified several other prohibited acts that citizens and businesses must avoid. These include tearing, crumpling, staining, soiling, writing on, cutting or otherwise defacing banknotes and coins. The central bank has also warned against unauthorised use of images of Ghanaian currency in publications or materials, and against buying or selling coins for amounts exceeding their face value—a practice sometimes seen in numismatic or collectible markets.

The Bank emphasised that currency notes and coins are exclusively intended to serve as legal tender. Any tampering, mutilation or defacement undermines the quality, integrity and functionality of the money that circulates in the economy. The BoG noted that it invests substantial resources in printing and minting currency, and that public cooperation in preserving its condition is essential to maintaining an efficient monetary system.

Why it matters for Ghana

This enforcement initiative reflects broader concerns about currency management and the public's relationship with money. In many African economies, including Ghana, informal practices around currency handling—whilst often rooted in cultural celebrations—can damage notes and coins, reducing their lifespan and requiring more frequent replacement. This increases costs for the central bank and, ultimately, taxpayers. By establishing clear legal consequences, the BoG is attempting to shift public behaviour towards treating currency with the respect and care it deserves as a symbol of the nation and a tool of economic function.

The warning also underscores the importance of institutional credibility. When currency is treated carelessly or disrespectfully, it can erode public confidence in the monetary system itself. The BoG's decision to partner with law enforcement agencies demonstrates that this is not merely advisory guidance but a policy backed by state power. Citizens and event organisers—from wedding planners to venue managers—should now recognise that currency misuse carries real legal risk.

The Bank has urged individuals, businesses and institutions to handle the cedi responsibly and to report any breaches to appropriate authorities. For Ghanaians accustomed to expressing generosity through money gifts at celebrations, this policy shift will require adopting alternative gift-giving practices that do not involve currency abuse. The BoG's firm stance signals that protecting the integrity of Ghana's currency is now a shared national responsibility.