Collins Sefa The Bank of Ghana has launched a nationwide currency-education campaign as part of activities marking the 60th anniversary of the cedi, taking its sensitisation efforts directly to informal markets where most cash transactions occur.
Governor Johnson Pandit Asiama led the outreach at Accra’s Makola Market, encouraging traders to adopt better currency-handling habits to extend the lifespan of banknotes. The cedi, he noted, has been central to Ghana’s economic evolution over six decades—from policy reforms to the daily financial routines of households and businesses.
The initiative forms part of the Bank’s broader strategy to tackle the rapid deterioration of banknotes, which results in high replacement costs. With the cedi dominating transactions in markets, shops, farms and transport centres, traders remain a critical link in preserving the currency.
Director of Currency, Dominic Owusu, said the campaign, branded ‘Handle the cedi with Dignity’, aims to correct longstanding habits that damage notes. He warned against crumpling money, explaining that squeezed or folded notes wear out faster and compromise security features. Replacing torn currency, he added, requires foreign exchange and places additional pressure on the central bank’s budget.
Mr. Owusu said the sensitisation drive will expand beyond Accra to markets across the country in the coming months. Teams will maintain a strong physical presence to demonstrate proper handling techniques and reinforce the cedi’s symbolic importance. “The Ghana cedi is our heritage and our identity,” he said.
Market queens and leaders welcomed the engagement. Naa Afrowa NeeDjan, president of the Greater Accra Market Association, said it was the first time senior Bank officials had interacted directly with traders. She noted that demonstrations on how to fold and store money were helpful and that the association will extend the education to its members.
She added that traders had also raised concerns about pricing dynamics, saying the recent stability of the cedi should reflect in the cost of imported goods. Wholesalers, she argued, ought to adjust prices downward so that retailers can pass savings on to consumers.
The BoG’s sensitisation exercise also covered Kaneshie and Madina markets. Officials say the campaign will continue nationwide as part of ongoing efforts to preserve the cedi and promote proper currency handling.
