Nairobi, Kenya – The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued a stern warning against the growing trend of using banknotes to create floral-style bouquets, declaring the practice illegal and punishable by up to seven years in prison.
The trend, popularised by social media influencers, involves rolling, pinning, and gluing cash into decorative arrangements for birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.
CBK: Practice Defaces Currency
In a statement released on Monday, the CBK said the practice “defaces” the currency and compromises the integrity of banknotes.
“Banknotes used in bouquets are often glued, stapled, or pinned. This damage prevents the notes from being processed by ATMs and cash-counting machines, leading to unnecessary costs for the public and the bank to replace them,” the CBK noted.
While the regulator clarified it does not oppose cash being used as a gift, it urged Kenyans to find alternative ways of presenting money that do not involve physical damage.
Public Reaction
The announcement sparked mixed reactions online, with some social media users expressing relief that the ban provides a convenient excuse to avoid the costly trend. Others found amusement in the crackdown, joking that Kenya’s flower industry would benefit as Valentine’s Day approaches.
Regional Crackdown on Currency Misuse
Kenya is not alone in taking a firm stance against creative misuse of currency:
- In Nigeria, the central bank has cracked down on the traditional practice of “spraying” money at weddings and parties. Several high-profile figures have been arrested for “tampering” with the Naira after videos showed them throwing or treading on banknotes.
- In Ghana, authorities have cautioned against “money cakes” multi-tiered structures made of folded bills reminding citizens that the Cedi is state property and must be handled with care to avoid costly replacements.
Conclusion
As Kenya, a major global exporter of flowers, heads into Valentine’s season, the CBK’s warning underscores the importance of protecting the integrity of national currency. For those planning gifts, the message is clear: roses, not rolled banknotes, remain the most appropriate bouquet.
