The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators, businesses and the general public that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment for goods and services is a criminal offence punishable by law.
In a public notice, the central bank said it had observed the “widespread and persistent refusal” by some individuals and businesses to accept 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 pesewa coins, as well as GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins.
The BoG stressed that all coins issued by the central bank remain legal tender and must be accepted for the settlement of debts and commercial transactions across the country.
It emphasised that no trader, transport operator, business entity or individual has the right to reject the coins on the grounds of inconvenience, low value or personal preference.
According to the central bank, the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242) makes it an offence to refuse to sell goods or provide services because a customer is paying with legal-tender coins or banknotes, unless the currency has been officially demonetised or withdrawn from circulation.
The BoG stated that persons convicted of the offence could face a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
It further warned that anyone who encourages or instructs others to reject legal-tender coins—including business owners who direct employees to refuse them—commits the same offence and is liable to the same penalties.
The central bank also noted that individuals caught committing the offence may be arrested without a warrant.
The BoG urged the public to stop rejecting cedi coins, cautioning that persistent offenders risk arrest, prosecution, fines or imprisonment.
It said it would work closely with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to enforce compliance with the law.
The central bank also encouraged members of the public to report incidents of coin rejection to the nearest Bank of Ghana office, the Ghana Police Service or through its official communication channels.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining confidence in Ghana’s currency, the BoG called on individuals, businesses and institutions to accept and use all denominations of the cedi responsibly and in accordance with the law.
