Rejecting cedi coins could land you in jail for three years – BoG warns

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned that refusing to sell goods or provide services simply because a customer is paying with legal cedi coins is an offence under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), and offenders risk a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

The warning follows what the central bank described as the widespread refusal by some traders, transport operators and businesses to accept 1 pesewa, 5 pesewa, 10 pesewa, 20 pesewa and 50 pesewa coins, as well as GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins, for the payment of goods and services.

In a public notice issued on July 22, 2026, the BoG stressed that all coins issued by the Bank remain legal tender and have not been withdrawn from circulation. It said no individual or business has the right to reject the coins because they are considered inconvenient, of low value or based on personal preference.

The central bank further cautioned that business owners who direct or encourage their employees to reject coins will face the same penalties as those who commit the offence themselves.

According to the notice, persons caught committing the offence may be arrested without a warrant, while those convicted could be fined, jailed for up to three years, or both.

The BoG said it will collaborate with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to ensure strict enforcement of the law against anyone found rejecting legal tender.

It 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 the Bank’s official communication channels.

The Bank called on all individuals, businesses and institutions to support the national currency by accepting and handling all cedi coins responsibly and in accordance with the law.

Below is the full statement;