The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators and businesses that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment could result in imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.
The Central Bank said it has observed a “widespread and persistent refusal” by some businesses and individuals to accept the 1 pesewa, 5 pesewa, 10 pesewa, 20 pesewa and 50 pesewa coins, as well as the GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins.
In a public notice on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, the BoG stressed that all coins it has issued remain legal tender and have neither been demonetised nor withdrawn from circulation.
“No trader, transport operator, business entity, or individual has the discretion to unilaterally refuse to accept these coins in payment for goods, services, or other legitimate transactions on grounds of inconvenience, low value, or personal preference,” the Bank stated.
It explained that under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), refusing to sell an item simply because a customer intends to pay with valid coins or notes constitutes an offence.
“Where a person is convicted of this offence, the penalties include: imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years; or a fine; or both imprisonment and a fine,” the notice said.
The BoG added that business owners who instruct their employees to reject coins could also face the same punishment, while persons caught committing the offence 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 take action against offenders.
Members of the public who encounter businesses or individuals refusing to accept valid coins have been encouraged to report such incidents to the police, the nearest BoG office or through the Bank’s official communication channels.
The latest directive follows an earlier notice issued by the BoG on July 14, 2026, warning against the misuse, abuse and illegal handling of Ghana cedi banknotes and coins.
