The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned traders, transport operators, and businesses that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment for goods and services is a criminal offence punishable by law.

In a public notice, the central bank said it had observed the “widespread and persistent refusal” by some individuals and businesses to accept 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pesewa coins, as well as GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins.

According to the BoG, all coins issued by the Bank remain legal tender and must be accepted for the settlement of debts and transactions nationwide.

It stressed that no trader, transport operator, business entity, or individual has the discretion to reject the coins on grounds of inconvenience, low value, or personal preference.

The bank explained that under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242), refusing to sell goods or services because a customer is paying with legal-tender coins or notes constitutes an offence unless the currency has been demonetised or withdrawn from circulation.

It noted that offenders, upon conviction, could face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

The BoG further warned that anyone who encourages or instructs others to reject coins, including business owners who direct their staff to refuse them, commits the same offence and is liable to the same penalties.

It added that persons caught committing the offence may be arrested without a warrant.

The central bank urged the public to stop rejecting cedi coins, warning that persistent offenders risk arrest, prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.

It said it would collaborate with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the law.

The BoG 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 accept and handle Ghana’s currency in all its denominations responsibly and in accordance with the law.