CBK Issues Warning Over Money Bouquets and Mishandling of Currency
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued a fresh public advisory cautioning against the popular trend of crafting money bouquets and other decorative uses of cash, warning that such practices damage banknotes and could lead to legal consequences.
Released on Monday, February 2, 2026, the statement highlights a rising wave of creativity where Kenyans fold, glue, staple, pin, tape, or otherwise fasten Kenya Shilling notes into elaborate “cash flower bouquets,” ornamental displays, and similar gifts—often seen at weddings, birthdays, baby showers, graduations, and increasingly around Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Why Money Bouquets Are Raising Red Flags
CBK emphasized that these methods compromise the physical integrity of banknotes, making them unfit for everyday use. Actions like folding, gluing, stapling, or pinning interfere with automated cash-handling systems, including ATMs, cash-counting machines, and sorting equipment.
This leads to higher rates of rejected notes during processing, forcing the premature withdrawal and replacement of currency—an unnecessary expense borne by the public and the Bank itself.
“The use of adhesives, pins, staples, and similar materials damages banknotes and interferes with the efficient operation of cash-handling and processing equipment,” the CBK notice stated.
As a result, notes become unsuitable for circulation, undermining their role as a reliable medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value.
Cash Gifts Are Fine—But Keep Them Intact
The regulator made it clear that it has no objection to giving cash as a gift or in celebratory contexts. However, any presentation method that alters, defaces, damages, or mutilates the notes crosses the line.
“Currency should remain in a condition that allows it to circulate freely and perform its intended functions,” CBK explained.
The Bank urged entrepreneurs and vendors offering money bouquet services to switch to alternative, non-destructive ways of presenting monetary gifts.
Legal Ramifications Under Kenyan Law
CBK invoked Section 367 of the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya), which criminalizes the defacement, mutilation, or impairment of currency notes. Violators risk prosecution, as the practice is explicitly prohibited to protect the national currency.
Broader Popularity and Related Trends
Money bouquets have surged in popularity across Kenya as a flashy, memorable gifting option—sometimes even surpassing traditional floral arrangements in appeal for romantic or festive occasions. Related creative surprises, such as inserting banknotes into baked cakes for recipients to discover, have also gained traction.
While innovative, these habits now face official scrutiny as CBK doubles down on efforts to preserve the quality, usability, and public trust in the Kenya Shilling.
The Central Bank reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of notes in circulation through public education and stakeholder engagement. Kenyans are encouraged to handle cash responsibly and opt for damage-free alternatives when showing generosity through money gifts.
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CBK Issues Warning Over Money Bouquets and Mishandling of Currency