NAIROBI, Kenya — The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued a stern warning against using banknotes to create floral bouquets and decorative arrangements, a growing trend in the country ahead of Valentine’s Day.
The practice, popularised by celebrities and online influencers, involves rolling, folding, and fastening notes to resemble flowers, often shared on social media during celebrations.
However, the CBK says the trend constitutes defacement of legal tender, with offenders potentially facing up to seven years in prison. “Banknotes that are folded, rolled, glued, stapled, pinned or otherwise affixed using adhesives or fastening materials compromise their integrity,” the bank stated on Monday.
The central bank highlighted that such tampering not only damages currency but also disrupts automated teller machines (ATMs) and cash-counting machines, leading to rejected notes and additional replacement costs for both the public and financial institutions.
Despite the warning, the CBK emphasised that it does not oppose gifting cash but urged people to explore alternative methods that do not compromise banknotes.
Kenya, a leading global producer of flowers, has seen some welcoming the advice, suggesting fresh blooms as a more appropriate gift.
Also Read: Love on a Budget: Affordable Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day
The announcement has also sparked a mix of amusement and approval 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,” Alinur Mohamed commented on X.
Others praised the decision as “a much-needed relief for those who found cash bouquets overly expensive and wasteful.”
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner on 14 February, the CBK’s advisory serves as a timely reminder to preserve the integrity of Kenyan currency while celebrating the occasion.
