Bank of Ghana to Crack Down on Cash Spraying and Money Bouquets at Events
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced plans to clamp down on the practice of spraying banknotes at social events and the use of money bouquets and similar cash arrangements as gifts, describing the practices as unacceptable.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, disclosed the directive during the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) press briefing, stating that enforcement would take effect immediately.
According to him, the central bank has already issued a notice prohibiting the practice and will ensure strict compliance.
“We want to discourage those who spread notes at functions. We are going to make sure that practice is stopped with immediate effect,” Dr. Asiama said.
He added that the directive also covers money bouquets and other decorative arrangements made with currency notes.
“They call it bouquet and other packages. No, no, no. Those practices are not acceptable, and we are going to be emphasizing that going forward,” he stressed.
The Governor did not immediately outline the specific sanctions that would apply to individuals who violate the directive. However, the announcement signals the central bank’s intention to protect the integrity of the Ghana cedi and discourage practices that involve the improper handling of currency notes.
Spraying cash at weddings, funerals, parties and other celebrations has become increasingly common in Ghana, with attendees throwing banknotes into the air or placing them on celebrants during dancing. Similarly, money bouquets and cash hampers have gained popularity as gift items at social events.
The Bank of Ghana has consistently maintained that the cedi is legal tender and should be treated with care. The latest directive reinforces the central bank’s efforts to preserve the dignity and lifespan of Ghana’s currency while promoting responsible handling of banknotes.
The announcement forms part of broader measures outlined during the MPC press briefing as the central bank continues efforts to strengthen confidence in the country’s financial system.
