With Valentine’s Day just days away, the public has been strongly cautioned against the growing trend of using Ghanaian cedi notes as gifts, decorations, or bouquet embellishments during celebrations.
Authorities have stressed that such acts amount to the abuse of the national currency and are prohibited under Ghanaian law. Practices such as spraying money, stapling notes to flowers, folding them into decorative shapes, or presenting them as part of Valentine-themed gifts are considered offences and could attract prosecution.
The warning comes amid increased social media displays and festive customs that often peak around Valentine’s Day, weddings, and parties. Officials note that while expressions of love and generosity are welcome, they must not undermine the dignity of the national currency.
Members of the public are therefore encouraged to explore alternative gift options such as flowers, cards, chocolates, vouchers, or other thoughtful items that do not involve defacing or misusing cedi notes. Respect for the currency, they say, is a civic responsibility that should be upheld even during celebrations.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, citizens are being reminded that celebrating love should not come at the expense of breaking the law, and that thoughtful gestures can still be meaningful without risking legal consequences.