Concerns are emerging over domestic currency management as traders in parts of Accra openly reject the use of Ghana’s 20-pesewa coins, despite ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy through programmes such as the Gold-for-Reserves initiative.

Reports from several commercial hubs indicate that traders are increasingly refusing to accept the coins as change, raising questions about the Bank of Ghana’s oversight of currency circulation and public confidence in the cedi.

The latest development follows earlier concerns about the growing acceptance of foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar, in domestic transactions.

Observers now say the rejection of coins represents a new and troubling trend in the use of Ghana’s legal tender.

Areas including Pokuase, Achimota, Makola, Tema Station and the Post Office enclave have been identified as hotspots where the 20-pesewa coins are routinely declined.

In many cases, traders reportedly refuse the coins without hesitation, including during transactions in traffic and open markets.

According to Classfmonline.com, traders who reject the coins often justify their actions by claiming that customers do not want them, even though no official directive has been issued by the Bank of Ghana to discontinue their use.

The practice has sparked concern among commuters and consumers, some of whom say they are forced to forfeit change or make up price differences due to the rejection of the coins.

Currency experts warn that the refusal to accept legally issued coins undermines confidence in the national currency and could further weaken efforts to promote the cedi as the primary medium of exchange.

As of now, the Bank of Ghana has not publicly commented on the widespread rejection of the 20-pesewa coins.

However, stakeholders are calling on the central bank to intensify public education and enforcement measures to ensure full acceptance of all denominations of the cedi in everyday transactions.