The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued a firm warning against the growing trend of using banknotes to make decorative “money bouquets,” cautioning that the practice is illegal and could attract severe penalties, including imprisonment.
In a public advisory, the CBK urged Kenyans to stop folding, gluing, stapling, or otherwise manipulating banknotes to create flower-like ornaments an increasingly popular Valentine’s Day gift that has been amplified by celebrities and social media influencers. Videos circulating online often show revelers presenting bouquets assembled from Kenyan shilling notes during parties and celebrations.
According to the CBK, these practices degrade the quality and integrity of the currency. The bank explained that notes used in such decorations are frequently folded, rolled into circles, glued, stapled, pierced, pinned, or affixed to other objects, actions that compromise their durability and cleanliness.
The regulator warned that damaging currency violates the law and offenders risk up to seven years in prison if convicted. Beyond the legal consequences, the CBK said mutilated notes create operational challenges, particularly for ATMs and cash-counting machines, and lead to higher rejection rates of banknotes in circulation.
“These activities increase the cost burden on the public and on banks due to the unnecessary replacement of damaged notes,” the CBK said, adding that while gifting money itself is lawful, it should be done in ways that do not destroy or deface banknotes.
Kenya, one of the world’s leading exporters of cut flowers, saw mixed reactions to the announcement. Some welcomed the guidance, suggesting that fresh flowers are a more appropriate and sustainable Valentine’s gift on February 14.
The advisory also sparked light-hearted reactions online. On X, Alinur Mohamed joked: “The Central Bank of Kenya has rescued men ahead of this year’s Valentine’s Day. Let’s go back to basics just a bouquet of flowers.” Another Kenyan user said the decision brought “much-needed relief” to people who viewed money bouquets as expensive and wasteful.
The CBK reiterated its call for creativity that respects the law, encouraging celebrants to express affection without damaging the national currency.
