By Fatmata Binta Sow
Freetown, 24th April, 2026 – Electronic transactions have become an essential part of daily life in Sierra Leone, with many people relying on mobile money services to send, receive, and withdraw cash. However, some customers in Freetown have raised concerns over the refusal of SLE 1&2 notes by some mobile money agents.
This issue has become so frustrating for customers. Mary Normanh, a mobile money user, said, “The SLE 1 & 2 notes remain legal tender and should be accepted for transactions,” stating that the refusal creates inconvenience, especially for people who depend on small notes for daily expenses.
Responding to this claim, a mobile money agent, Ibrahim Dukuray, said that customers often prefer notes above SLE 1 & 2 for transactions. This, he said, leaves them with an excess of SLE 1 & 2 notes. He added that it slows transactions, “particularly during busy business hours.”
Customers argued that refusing the small notes places an unfair burden on the public. They maintained that all legal currency issued by the Bank of Sierra Leone should be accepted, including the small notes.
The issue has sparked discussions among residents, with some calling for greater public awareness and clarification from the relevant authorities regarding the acceptance of all legal notes in commercial transactions.
As electronic transactions continue to play a significant role in Sierra Leone’s economy, both customers and agents are hoping for a solution that balances convenience with the need to ensure that all small notes of the national currency remain in circulation and are accepted for everyday
