The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has cautioned the public against using banknotes in ways that damage them, following a rise in cash flower bouquets and ornamental money displays. The regulator says such practices violate the country’s Penal Code and compromise the integrity of the currency.
In a notice issued on Monday, CBK said it has noticed more Kenyans using Shilling notes to create cash bouquets, decorative arrangements, and other ornamental displays, particularly at weddings, graduations, and celebrations. While the bank does not object to giving cash as a gift, it emphasized that banknotes must not be altered, defaced, or otherwise damaged.
“Such practices compromise the integrity of Kenya Shilling banknotes and render them unsuitable for circulation,” CBK said. “Using adhesives, pins, staples, or similar materials damages banknotes and interferes with the efficient operation of cash-handling equipment, including ATMs, cash-counting machines, and sorting devices.”
The warning comes ahead of Valentine’s Day, a period when cash flower bouquets and similar money displays spike in popularity. The CBK aims to prevent a seasonal surge in damaged banknotes, which increases the cost of printing and replacing currency.
Damaging currency is not only a practical concern but also a legal one. Section 367 of Kenya’s Penal Code prohibits the defacement, mutilation, or impairment of banknotes issued by the central bank.
“Currency should remain in a condition that allows it to circulate freely and perform its intended functions as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value,” the CBK said.
Despite the rise of digital payments like M-Pesa and Airtel Money, cash remains widely used in Kenya. Cash bouquets have become a popular way to gift money, but the trend has drawn regulatory attention.
The CBK warned that improper use of banknotes can affect their quality, usability, and public confidence in the currency, urging the public to handle cash responsibly.