Growing excitement around creative romantic gifts has taken a serious turn after the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) issued a strong warning about the misuse of banknotes in decorative displays.
The trend of arranging money into flower bouquets and other ornamental designs has become popular on social media, especially among young couples seeking unique ways to impress their partners. However, authorities now say this practice could attract legal consequences.
CBK raised concern on Monday, February 2, 2026, after observing an increase in cases where Kenyan shilling notes are folded, rolled, glued, stapled, or pinned together to form decorative items.
According to the bank, these actions damage the physical condition of the currency and interfere with machines that handle cash in banks and other financial institutions.
In its statement, CBK said, “The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has noted a growing trend in the use of Kenya Shilling banknotes for decorative and celebratory purposes, including the preparation of cash flower bouquets, ornamental displays, and similar arrangements.”
The bank explained that damaged notes are often rejected by ATMs, cash-counting machines, and sorting equipment.
This leads to delays in service and forces the bank to remove and replace money earlier than expected, creating unnecessary costs for both the public and financial institutions.
While many people view cash bouquets as harmless gifts, CBK emphasized that money must remain in good condition to serve its purpose. The bank clarified that giving cash as a present is allowed, but it should not involve any form of damage or alteration. It stressed that currency must remain fit for circulation and continue to function properly as a medium of exchange, a unit of account, and a store of value.
The statement went on, “While CBK does not object to the use of cash as a gift, such use should not involve any action that alters, damages, or defaces 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.”
CBK also reminded the public that the law clearly protects the integrity of currency. Section 367 of the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya) makes it an offence to deface, mutilate, or impair banknotes issued by a lawful authority. Anyone found willfully damaging money could face legal action under this law.
The warning comes just days before Valentine’s Day, a period when many couples prefer giving cash bouquets instead of traditional flowers or gifts. CBK urged Kenyans to find safer and more respectful ways to present money, such as placing it in envelopes or gift boxes that do not harm the notes.
The move is also part of CBK’s effort to protect the quality and image of the Kenyan currency. Recently, Kenya’s banknotes received international recognition after winning the prestigious Global Banknote Award for their design and security features. CBK wants to ensure that the notes remain clean, attractive, and usable for as long as possible.
The bank is encouraging creativity that does not compromise the value or condition of the national currency, reminding the public that protecting money is a shared responsibility.
