Bank of Ghana warns against DIY cedi note repairs as social media trend spreads

The Bank of Ghana has issued a stern warning against a growing social media trend of repairing torn and damaged cedi notes with tape and adhesive for re-circulation, cautioning that the practice damages the currency's integrity and could result in financial losses for ordinary Ghanaians.

In a statement released Wednesday, the central bank said it had become aware of videos circulating online showing individuals gluing, taping and stapling damaged banknotes back together before putting them back into use. The BoG has made clear this is not only improper but potentially illegal and damaging to Ghana's monetary system.

Why the practice is dangerous

The central bank explained that improperly repaired notes pose several risks. Firstly, taped, glued or stapled banknotes are unfit for circulation and can damage automated teller machines (ATMs) and currency-processing equipment used by banks. Secondly, when such notes are presented for payment or exchange, they are likely to be rejected, leaving members of the public out of pocket with worthless currency.

Beyond practical concerns, the BoG stressed that repairing mutilated notes undermines the integrity of the cedi as a national symbol and affects its acceptability throughout the financial system. The central bank holds the sole mandate for managing Ghana's currency and determining which notes remain fit for circulation.

The proper procedure for damaged notes

Rather than attempting DIY repairs, Ghanaians should follow the Bank of Ghana's official procedures for handling damaged currency. The BoG advises the public to present all mutilated or damaged banknotes to any commercial bank for examination and replacement. However, to qualify for examination and replacement, more than half of the original note must be presented.

The central bank has urged citizens to report anyone engaged in improper repair, re-joining or mutilation of banknotes to the Bank of Ghana or law enforcement authorities.

What this means for Ghana

This warning reflects broader concerns about currency management in an increasingly digital yet still cash-dependent economy. While Ghana's banking system continues to modernise with expanded digital payment options, physical currency remains essential for many transactions, particularly in informal sectors and rural areas. When damaged notes re-enter circulation through informal repair, they create inefficiencies in the banking system and erode confidence in the physical currency itself.

The emergence of social media videos showing this practice suggests it may have become more widespread than previously recognised. The BoG's public statement indicates an effort to educate citizens about proper currency handling and the official channels available for addressing damaged notes before informal solutions become entrenched as common practice.

The bank's appeal to treat the cedi with respect as a national symbol underscores that currency management is not merely a technical banking issue but also a matter of national pride and economic stability. Ghanaians are encouraged to handle banknotes carefully and to use official banking channels for all currency-related concerns.