MONROVIA – The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has launched a bold “Clean Note Campaign” aimed at preserving the integrity of the Liberian dollar, urging citizens to handle banknotes responsibly and protect the nation’s currency as a symbol of pride and stability.
The campaign officially kicks off on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Rally Time Market in Monrovia, with a float parade, music, and drama designed to raise awareness about proper currency handling.
According to the CBL, poor practices such as squeezing, writing, stamping, stapling, exposing banknotes to dirt and moisture, and even melting coins have destroyed nearly L$1 billion worth of the new family of banknotes printed in 2022. Replacing these damaged notes costs the country millions of dollars annually.
The Clean Note Campaign seeks to instill a sense of national pride and responsibility by urging Liberians to handle the currency with care. Offenders risk a fine of L$500,000 or up to two years in jail under existing laws.
CBL Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi underscored the symbolic importance of the initiative: “The Liberian dollar is a symbol of our sovereignty. When we disrespect our money, we disrespect ourselves as a people. This campaign challenges every Liberian to safeguard the value of our currency and show pride in our national identity.”
The initiative has already gained the backing of major stakeholders, including all nine commercial banks, the Liberian Marketing Association, the Liberia Business Association, the National Association of Foreign Exchange Bureaus, the National Street Vendors and Scratch Card Dealers Association, and the Merged Federation of Motorcyclists and Tricyclists Union. These groups have pledged to mobilize their members in support of the campaign.
Governor Saamoi stressed that the launch marks the beginning of a sustained, nationwide effort:
“This is not a one-off event. We are rolling out radio programs, community theater, grassroots outreach, and direct market engagements across Liberia. Whether you are a vendor, taxi driver, student, or office worker, this campaign speaks to you.” The CBL is calling on all Liberians to join the awareness drive and become champions of the message: “Our Money, Our Pride – Handle It with Care.”
