Kenya’s Central Bank has warned members of the public to stop using banknotes to create floral-style bouquets and decorations, describing the growing trend as an act that defaces the national currency.
The practice, which has gained popularity in recent years, often peaks in the run-up to Valentine’s Day and has been amplified by celebrities and social media influencers who share videos of cash bouquets being presented during celebrations.
To create the bouquets, banknotes of various denominations and colours are rolled, folded, and fastened together to resemble flower arrangements. However, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) says such actions damage the notes and violate the country’s currency laws.
In a statement issued on Monday, the CBK warned that individuals found defacing Kenyan banknotes risk up to seven years’ imprisonment under existing regulations.
According to the bank, the notes are often “folded, rolled, glued, stapled, pinned or otherwise affixed using adhesives or fastening materials, compromising their integrity.” The damage, it said, affects the functionality of ATMs and cash-counting machines, leading to frequent rejection of notes.
The CBK added that the trend has resulted in unnecessary replacement costs for both the public and the banking system.
While stressing that it does not oppose the use of cash as gifts, the bank urged people to adopt alternative gifting methods that do not damage currency.
Kenya is one of the world’s leading exporters of flowers, and the announcement has been welcomed by some who say fresh flower bouquets are a more fitting Valentine’s Day gift. The directive has also sparked light-hearted reactions on social media.
“The public notice from the Central Bank of Kenya has saved men ahead of this year’s Valentine’s Day. Back to basics—bouquet of flowers it is,” wrote Alinur Mohamed on X.
Another Kenyan said the decision had been widely welcomed, describing it as “much-needed relief for people who found cash bouquets overly expensive and wasteful.”
