Bank of Ghana warns against repairing damaged Cedi notes with glue

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a stern warning to the public against the practice of using adhesive tape or glue to repair torn Cedi banknotes. This directive comes in response to a viral social media video depicting individuals attempting to patch damaged currency using these materials. The central bank emphasized that such actions compromise the integrity of the national currency and render the notes unfit for general circulation.

According to the BoG, the use of foreign substances like tape or glue on banknotes poses significant risks to the country's financial infrastructure. These improperly repaired notes can cause malfunctions or permanent damage to Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and high-speed currency processing machines used by financial institutions. Beyond technical issues, mutilated notes often lose their security features and aesthetic standards required for legitimate tender, complicating transactions for businesses and consumers alike.

Instead of attempting self-repairs, the central bank advises citizens to follow established legal channels for handling damaged currency. Individuals holding torn or worn-out banknotes should present them to their respective commercial banks for replacement. The BoG clarified that for a note to be eligible for exchange or examination, more than half of the original banknote must be intact. This policy ensures that the public can maintain the value of their money while allowing the central bank to withdraw unfit notes from the economy systematically.

The BoG further urged the public to be vigilant and report any individuals or groups engaged in the improper repair or manipulation of currency to the relevant authorities. By discouraging these practices, the central bank aims to preserve the longevity of the Cedi and reduce the significant costs associated with frequent currency reprinting and machine maintenance. Maintaining the quality of the Cedi is presented as a collective responsibility to ensure the smooth operation of Ghana's payment systems.