BoG warns traders against rejecting cedi coins
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned traders, transport operators, businesses and the public that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment for goods or services is a criminal offence that could attract prosecution, fines, imprisonment or both.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, the central bank stressed that all coins issued by the BoG remain legal tender and must be accepted in commercial transactions nationwide.
The warning follows reports that some traders, transport operators and businesses continue to reject 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 pesewa coins, as well as GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins.
The notice comes after the BoG’s earlier directive, Notice No. BG/GOV/SEC/2026/17, issued on July 14, 2026, which addressed the misuse and unlawful handling of Ghana cedi notes and coins. The latest directive specifically targets the illegal refusal to accept coins as legal tender.
According to the BoG, none of the coins it has issued, including pesewa denominations, has been withdrawn from circulation, and therefore they remain valid for all transactions.
The bank emphasised that no individual or business has the legal right to reject coins because of their low value, inconvenience or personal preference.
It explained that under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), refusing to provide goods or services because a customer pays with valid coins or banknotes constitutes an offence unless the currency has officially ceased to be legal tender.
The BoG noted that offenders could face a prison sentence of up to three years, a fine or both upon conviction.
It further warned that anyone who instructs or encourages others to reject coins, including business owners directing their employees to do so, is equally liable under the law. The notice added that suspects may be arrested without a warrant.
The central bank said it would collaborate with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance and prosecute offenders.
Members of the public who encounter such incidents have been encouraged to report them to the nearest Bank of Ghana office, the Ghana Police Service or through the bank’s official communication channels.
The BoG also urged individuals, businesses and institutions to accept and use all denominations of the Ghana cedi in accordance with the law.
The notice, dated July 22, 2026, was signed by the Bank’s Secretary, Ms Aimee Vyda Quashie.
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