The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a stern warning to traders, transport operators, businesses, and the general public against the refusal to accept Ghana cedi coins, emphasising that such actions are illegal and may lead to criminal penalties. This notice, dated July 22, 2026, comes in response to increasing reports of rejection concerning the 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pesewa coins, as well as the GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins during routine transactions.
The central bank has clarified that all coins currently circulating in Ghana remain legal tender and have not been demonetised or withdrawn from use. It is expressly forbidden for individuals or businesses to refuse valid coins simply due to their perceived inconvenience, low face value, or practicality.
All coins issued by the Bank of Ghana, including the pesewa denominations, are recognised as valid legal tender for settling debts and conducting transactions throughout the country. The BoG stressed that no trader, transport operator, business, or individual has the right to unilaterally deny acceptance of these coins due to personal preferences or inconveniences.
According to Ghana’s Currency Act, refusing to sell goods or provide services solely because a customer pays with valid coins or notes constitutes an offence. Those found guilty could face fines, imprisonment of up to three years, or both. Furthermore, the Bank has cautioned that anyone who encourages, directs, or instructs others to reject valid legal tender may also be subject to criminal liability.
The BoG has made it clear that offenders may be arrested without a warrant, collaborating with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance. This firm stance reflects the central bank’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the country’s payment system.
The rejection of lower-denomination coins poses significant risks, particularly within the informal economy, where small-value transactions are commonplace. Such rejections can lead to pricing distortions, encourage price rounding, and ultimately diminish the practical utility of smaller denominations, which is particularly detrimental for low-income consumers and cash-reliant businesses.
Moreover, the widespread refusal to accept valid coins could result in inefficiencies in retail transactions and complicate cash circulation across the economy. By reaffirming the legal status of all currently circulating denominations, the Bank of Ghana aims to ensure that the full range of the cedi continues to function effectively within the payment system.
The Bank has urged the public to report any incidents of valid Ghana cedi coins being rejected through its offices or official communication channels, as well as to the Ghana Police Service.
