CBK warns Kenyans against ‘money bouquets’, cites currency misuse, damage
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has cautioned the public against damaging Kenya Shilling banknotes in the name of decorative and celebratory displays, saying the growing trend of making “cash flower bouquets” and similar arrangements compromises the integrity of currency and interferes with cash processing.
In a public notice dated February 2, 2026, the CBK said it has observed increased use of banknotes for decorative purposes, including cash bouquets and ornamental displays.
The bank noted that in many instances, notes are folded, rolled, glued, taped, stapled, pinned or otherwise affixed using adhesives and fastening materials — actions it said damage banknotes and render them unsuitable for circulation.
CBK said the practice also affects the efficient operation of cash-handling and processing equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs), cash-counting machines and sorting equipment.
The result, it added, is higher rejection rates during processing and premature withdrawal and replacement of currency, at an avoidable cost to both the public and the bank.
While the CBK said it does not object to giving cash as a gift, it urged that such gifts should not involve altering, damaging or defacing banknotes.
“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.
The regulator also reminded the public that Section 367 of the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya) prohibits the defacement, mutilation or impairment of currency notes
It warned that any person who wilfully defaces, mutilates or in any way impairs any currency note issued by lawful authority commits an offence under the Penal Code.
CBK urged Kenyans to refrain from practices that compromise banknotes and to adopt alternative, non-damaging ways of presenting monetary gifts, adding that it will continue with public sensitisation and stakeholder engagement to protect the quality and usability of currency in circulation.
