By Mercy Matonga:
The Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) has cautioned people that it is against the law to refuse the country’s coins and small notes while conducting any business.
RBM Currency Operations Manager Samuel Senzani said this in Lilongwe on Monday during a currency awareness workshop organised to sensitise stakeholders on the country’s currency.
Senzani said it is surprising that some business operators are refusing K20 notes and some give sweets and other items in exchange for change.
“Our role is to supply money here in Malawi and to make sure that people are making good use of it. We have noted that some business operators keep money in wet places and some fold it carelessly, which is costing the bank a lot,” Senzani said.
He added that the police play a significant role in ensuring that the currency is well taken care of, which is why the bank included the police in the training.
In her remarks, Deputy Commissioner of Police and Director of Community Services Jacqueline Kainja said the police will work hand in hand with the bank to make sure that the currency is well taken care of.
“Currently, there are three people who have been arrested and are serving sentences in prisons in Mangochi and Lilongwe in relation to counterfeit currency. The police will continue to monitor the use of the currency,” Kainja said.
She added that it is wrong to throw money on the floor during weddings and that the police will not entertain those who are found engaging in this practice.
One of the participants at the event, master of ceremonies Kingwell Liphuka, said it is essential to ensure that people at functions make use of all denominations of the currency.
“Sometimes we get carried away by denying some small notes, but with this training, we will make sure that everyone who works in our field is aware of the value of every denomination,” Liphuka said.
Recently, there have been growing concerns among people about small business operators refusing to accept K20, K50 note and coins.
The training brought together masters of ceremonies, small business operators, church leaders and traditional healers.
