CBL Launches Clean Note Campaign …..“Our Money, Our Pride”

The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has launched a bold nationwide initiative to protect the Liberian dollar with the “Clean Note Campaign: Our Money, Our Pride,” officially set to commence on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Rally Time Market in Monrovia.

The campaign responds to an alarming rate of banknote mutilation, caused by practices such as writing, stamping, stapling, squeezing, exposing notes to dirt and moisture, and melting coins.

These habits have damaged an estimated L$1 billion of the new family of banknotes printed in 2022.

CBL officials stress that such practices not only degrade the appearance of Liberia’s currency but also cost the nation millions of dollars annually in replacement notes and coins.

The campaign aims to put every Liberian at the center of a movement to preserve the dignity of the nation’s currency, strengthen public confidence in the economy, and reinforce national identity.

Ahead of the official launch, campaign teams will conduct a two-day float across Monrovia, incorporating music, drama, and community engagement to educate the public on proper banknote handling.

The message is clear: “Our Money, Our Pride: Handle It with Care.” Violators who damage currency risk a fine of L$500,000 or up to two years in prison, underscoring the seriousness of the initiative.

The campaign has already garnered strong support from key stakeholders, including all nine commercial banks, the Liberian Marketing Association (LMA), Liberia Business Association (LIBA), the National Association of Foreign Exchange Bureaus, street vendors, scratch card dealers, and the Merged Federation of Motorcyclists and Tricyclist Union of Liberia.

These groups have pledged to mobilize their members nationwide to embrace the campaign, ensuring that the message reaches every market, street corner, and business across the country.

CBL Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi emphasized that the campaign is about more than just preserving paper notes.

“The Liberian dollar is a symbol of our sovereignty. When we disrespect our money, we disrespect ourselves as a people,” he said.

Governor Saamoi added that the Clean Note Campaign is a call to national responsibility, challenging Liberians to safeguard the value of their currency while demonstrating pride in their country.

“The launch is just the beginning of a sustained, nationwide effort. We are rolling out radio programs, community theater, grassroots outreach, and direct market engagements across Liberia. This campaign speaks to every citizen vendor, taxi drivers, students, and office workers alike,” Governor Saamoi stated.

CBL officials explained that the initiative will not only reduce replacement costs but also instill discipline and respect for Liberia’s financial system. Proper handling of money is seen as a reflection of civic responsibility and national pride.

The campaign’s creative outreach includes street performances, musical floats, educational skits, and demonstrations on correct currency handling, aiming to engage citizens in a fun yet impactful way.

Community leaders and market associations have lauded the CBL’s initiative, promising to lead by example and ensure shopkeepers, transport operators, and market vendors uphold the campaign’s principles.

Liberia prepares for the campaign launch this Friday, September 19, 2025 the CBL is calling on all citizens to actively participate, spread awareness, and become champions of the message: “Our Money, Our Pride: Handle It with Care.”

Meanwhile, the Liberia Business Association (LIBA) and the Liberian Marketing Association (LMA) have pledged their full support to the Central Bank of Liberia’s (CBL) national Clean Note Campaign, themed “Our Money, Our Pride.”

Officials from both associations emphasized the importance of clean and well-preserved banknotes in promoting smooth trade, protecting public health, and safeguarding Liberia’s national currency.

“We recognize that the quality of our currency reflects our economic dignity. Poor handling practices such as defacing, writing, stapling, squeezing, or exposing banknotes to unclean environments undermine the Liberian dollar and cost the government significantly,” a joint statement from LIBA and LMA leadership noted.

The Clean Note Campaign seeks to instill a sense of national pride by encouraging all Liberians to take responsibility for the proper care of their money.

LIBA and LMA are calling on their members across markets and businesses to lead by example, demonstrating how clean currency benefits both commerce and public confidence.

The associations also urged street vendors, shopkeepers, transport operators, and everyday consumers to actively participate in the campaign and uphold the integrity of the Liberian dollar.

The public is encouraged to embrace the campaign’s message: “Our Money, Our Pride: Handle it with Care.” This slogan aims to create a culture of respect for Liberia’s currency.

Speaking on behalf of LIBA, President James M. Strother highlighted the economic significance of clean money.

“A clean currency enhances business transactions and builds public confidence. The way we handle our money reflects how we value our economy,” he said.

At the same time, Elizabeth F. Sambollah, President of the Liberia Marketing Association, underscored the role of market leaders in educating the public.

“Our market women and men are at the frontlines of daily transactions. We are proud to stand with the CBL and will use our networks to teach members why proper handling of money is vital for national pride and economic stability,” she said.

LIBA and LMA reaffirmed their commitment to work closely with the CBL and other stakeholders to ensure the campaign’s success nationwide.

The associations stressed that proper banknote care not only extends the life of currency but also reduces replacement costs for the government, freeing up resources for development initiatives.

Experts note that damaged and dirty banknotes are more than a cosmetic issue they can facilitate the spread of germs, compromise business efficiency, and erode public trust in the national currency.

The Clean Note Campaign will include public education drives, market outreach programs, and media campaigns, ensuring that the message reaches all corners of Liberia.

Both LIBA and LMA expressed confidence that, through collective action, the campaign would strengthen public trust in the Liberian dollar, promote economic stability, and enhance national pride, setting a new standard for currency care in Liberia.

With the official launch just days away, the Central Bank, together with LIBA and LMA, is calling on every Liberian to embrace the simple yet powerful message: handle your money with care, because it is truly “Our Money, Our Pride.”