The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has prohibited the practice of spraying, throwing, or mishandling Ghana cedi notes at public events, describing the act as a violation of the country’s currency laws.

The central bank said the directive forms part of efforts to preserve the integrity, quality, and lifespan of Ghana’s legal tender while promoting responsible currency handling among the public.

Cash spraying has become a common feature at weddings, funerals, concerts, birthday celebrations, and other social gatherings, where people throw banknotes into the air or onto individuals to celebrate or show appreciation. However, the BoG maintains that such acts amount to the abuse and defacement of currency notes.

According to the Bank, the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242) prohibits the wilful defacement, destruction, mutilation, or improper handling of Ghana’s legal tender.

The central bank cautioned that individuals found engaging in such practices could face sanctions in accordance with the law.

It further urged the public, event organisers, musicians, MCs, and all stakeholders in the entertainment and events industry to support the directive by encouraging more appropriate ways of gifting money during celebrations.

The Bank of Ghana reiterated that currency notes are national assets and should be handled with care to maintain their quality and reduce the cost of replacing damaged notes.

The announcement has since generated widespread public debate, with many Ghanaians sharing mixed reactions over the impact of the directive on long-standing social and cultural practices.