Allexer Namundjembo
The Bank of Namibia (BoN) has warned that damaging or destroying Namibian currency is a criminal offence that can result in jail time or a heavy fine.
The warning follows a viral social media video showing the newly launched N$5 coin destroyed.
In a statement issued on Saturday, BoN said damaging or defacing legal tender is illegal under section 80(3)(a) of the Bank of Namibia Act and is punishable by a fine of up to N$50 000 or imprisonment of up to three years.
“The currency must be treated with care. It is not only a medium of exchange but also a representation of our shared identity and economic independence,” the statement read.
BoN said Namibia’s upgraded coins and banknotes are durable, secure, and meet international standards.
The central bank described any act of tampering or destruction as a criminal offence that undermines national pride, unity, and sovereignty.
The N$5 coin commemorates 34 years of independence and features enhanced design and security elements celebrating Namibia’s heritage.
Shortly after its release, however, videos surfaced online showing defaced coins—a trend that the Bank described as a threat to the integrity of the national currency.
This is not the first time currency tampering has drawn attention in Namibia.
In 2020, former minister in the presidency Christine //Hoebes faced public criticism after sharing a photoshopped image of a N$200 note on social media bearing the acting governor’s name.
The case sparked debate about respect for legal tender and public officials’ responsibility to uphold it.
BoN has previously issued warnings about counterfeit banknotes and unauthorised reproductions of Namibian currency.
In one case, police arrested suspects who were found with nearly N$30,000 in fake notes. The Bank reminded the public that reproducing or altering currency images without permission also violates national law.
Across the world, other central banks have issued similar warnings. In April 2025, the Bank of Zambia condemned the burning and defacement of banknotes, calling it a criminal act.
Nigeria and Nepal have also enforced strict penalties for mutilating their currencies, reinforcing the global stance on protecting monetary symbols.
“The Namibian currency is a symbol of national pride, unity, and sovereignty. Let’s safeguard the integrity of our legal tender for the benefit of current and future generations,” BoN said.
The Bank said it continues to run awareness campaigns to remind citizens that defacing currency not only disrespects national symbols but also carries serious legal consequences.
