Kenya, Uganda warn against “money bouquets” for valentine’s day

2026-02-11 - 09:48

As Valentine’s Day approaches, central banks in Kenya and Uganda have issued advisories urging the public to avoid using physical banknotes in decorative gifts such as “money bouquets” and other cash-based arrangements, citing concerns over currency damage and disruption to the financial system. In Kenya, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) warned that transforming Kenyan shilling notes into floral-style bouquets, money cakes, or similar displays can damage the integrity of the currency and interfere with cash-handling systems such as ATMs and counting machines. Authorities explained that folded, stapled, glued, or fastened banknotes may become unfit for circulation, increasing the cost of printing replacement notes — a burden ultimately borne by taxpayers. The CBK advisory has already affected some florists and designers who had planned money-themed gifts for the February 14 celebrations. Uganda’s central bank has issued a similar warning. The Bank of Uganda (BoU) released a statement cautioning florists, event planners, and members of the public against damaging Ugandan shilling notes or coins by incorporating them into Valentine’s decorations or gift displays. BoU officials stated that any practice that mutilates, defaces, or compromises the integrity of Uganda shilling currency undermines its use for everyday transactions and increases costs within the financial system. The bank clarified that while cash remains an acceptable gift, it should be given in its original form without alterations that could affect its quality.