Dont Tape Torn Cedi Notes For Re-Use- BoG Warns

The Bank of Ghana has cautioned the public against the practice of repairing and re-joining torn and soiled Ghana Cedi banknotes with adhesive tape for re-issuance as a business activity.

The warning follows a video circulating on social media showing individuals undertaking such repairs.

In a press release issued on October 7, 2026 by its Communications Department, the Central Bank said it has taken note of the video and strongly cautions the public against the practice.

The Bank stressed that the Ghana Cedi banknote is legal tender and an important national symbol, and that no person should engage in the repair, rejoining, or other alteration of mutilated banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation.

According to the Bank, such practices undermine the integrity of the currency and may affect its acceptability and proper processing within the cash cycle.

It noted that banknotes that have been taped, glued, stapled or otherwise improperly repaired are unfit for circulation and may damage ATMs and currency processing machines, and may be rejected when presented for payment or exchange, potentially resulting in financial loss to members of the public.

The Bank of Ghana reminded the public that it has the sole mandate for the management of Ghana’s currency, and that all mutilated banknotes should be presented to a commercial bank for examination and replacement in accordance with its laid-down procedures.

Where a mutilated banknote is presented for examination, the Bank said more than half of the original banknote should be presented.

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

Rather, it directed them 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 Central Bank further encouraged the public to handle Ghana Cedi banknotes with care and to report persons engaged in the improper repair, re-joining or mutilation of banknotes to the Bank of Ghana or the appropriate law enforcement authorities, adding that the Cedi must be respected as a symbol of national pride.

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