Bank of Ghana Cautions Public Against Repairing And Re-Joining Torn Cedi Notes With Adhesive Tape

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned the public against the mutilation and improper repair of Ghana Cedi banknotes for re-issuance as a business activity.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, October 7, 2026, the Central Bank said its attention has been drawn to a video circulating on social media showing individuals repairing and re-joining torn and soiled Ghana Cedi banknotes with adhesive tape for re-issuance.

"The Bank of Ghana strongly cautions the public against this practice," the statement said.

According to the Bank, the Ghana Cedi banknote is legal tender and an important national symbol.

"No person should engage in the repair, re-joining or other alteration of mutilated banknotes for re-issuance or recirculation. Such practices undermine the integrity of the currency and may affect its acceptability and proper processing within the cash cycle," BoG warned.

The Central Bank noted that banknotes that have been taped, glued, stapled or otherwise improperly repaired are unfit for circulation.

"Such notes 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," it said.

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

"Where a mutilated banknote is presented for examination, more than half of the original banknote should be presented," the release added.

*What To Do With Torn Or Damaged Notes*

- Do not 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 public is encouraged 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