BoG warns against taping, gluing, stapling damaged cedi notes

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has declared banknotes that have been taped, glued, stapled, or otherwise improperly repaired unfit for circulation, urging the public to desist from repairing damaged cedi notes for re-issuance.

The warning follows the circulation of a video on social media showing individuals repairing and rejoining torn and soiled Ghana cedi banknotes with adhesive tape as a business activity.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, the central bank cautioned the public against the practice, stressing that it undermines the integrity of the national currency.

“The Ghana Cedi banknote is legal tender and an important national symbol. No person should engage in the repair, rejoining or other alteration of mutilated banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation,” part of the statement read.

According to the central bank, improperly repaired notes may affect their acceptability and proper processing within the cash cycle.

It further warned that banknotes that have been taped, glued, stapled or otherwise improperly repaired could damage ATMs and currency processing machines.

Such notes may also be rejected when presented for payment or exchange, potentially resulting in financial losses for members of the public.

The Bank of Ghana said it has the sole mandate for the management of Ghana’s currency and has therefore directed that mutilated banknotes be taken to commercial banks for examination and replacement in line with established procedures.

It said that where a mutilated banknote is presented for examination, more than half of the original note should be available.

The central bank advised the public not to tape, glue, staple, re-join or otherwise attempt to repair damaged banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation.

“Members of the public are advised to take all mutilated or damaged banknotes to a commercial bank for examination and replacement in accordance with the Bank of Ghana’s laid-down procedures,” the statement added.

The BoG also encouraged the public to handle cedi banknotes with care and report persons engaged in the improper repair, rejoining or mutilation of banknotes to the central bank or the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

The warning forms part of the BoG’s broader efforts to preserve the quality and integrity of the cedi. The central bank has previously cautioned against practices that damage banknotes and increase the cost of replacing unfit currency.