Financial expert Dr Richmond Owusu Tuahene has backed the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) directive prohibiting the spraying of money at public events, describing the move as necessary and timely due to the rising cost of producing Ghana’s currency.
The directive, which has generated widespread discussion, targets the common practice of spraying banknotes at social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, parties and entertainment events.
While many people view money spraying as a cultural expression of celebration and generosity, financial authorities argue that the practice contributes to the misuse and rapid deterioration of the country’s legal tender.
Speaking in an interview with Adom News, Dr Owusu Tuahene explained that producing banknotes comes at a significant cost to the state, making it important for citizens to handle the currency properly to prolong its lifespan.
He noted that when banknotes are sprayed, stepped on, crumpled or mishandled during events, they become damaged and unfit for circulation.
According to him, this forces the central bank to spend additional resources replacing worn-out notes, creating an avoidable financial burden on the economy.
“Currency is not just paper; it is a symbol of national value and economic stability. Protecting it should be a shared responsibility,” he said.
Dr Owusu Tuahene stressed that the directive is not a new restriction but is based on existing laws governing the proper handling of the Ghanaian cedi.
He explained that regulations already prohibit actions that deface, destroy or misuse currency, and the current enforcement efforts are aimed at ensuring compliance.
He added that strict enforcement is necessary to prevent practices that could undermine the integrity of the country’s monetary system.
However, the directive has faced opposition, particularly from some players in the entertainment industry.
Some celebrities and entertainers have argued that money spraying forms part of their income at social events, especially for musicians, DJs and master of ceremonies.
In separate interviews with Adom News, they said the practice often serves as a direct source of earnings and questioned why enforcement efforts appear to focus more on entertainers than other groups who mishandle currency.
They suggested that authorities should also consider situations where money is abused in other settings, including marketplaces.
But Dr Owusu Tuahene maintained that the law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of profession or social standing.
He insisted that enforcement should be fair and comprehensive, stressing that protecting the country’s currency is a collective responsibility and in the interest of all Ghanaians.
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