Kenya’s central bank has banned use of banknotes as Valentine Flower bouquets saying its illegal and could lead to a prison sentence.
Those found guilty of damaging money could face up to seven years in jail
The trend, popularised by social media influencers, involves rolling and pinning cash into decorative arrangements for celebrations.
Central Bank of Kenya says the practice “defaces” the currency and compromises the integrity of the banknotes.
This damage prevents the notes from being processed by ATMs and cash-counting machines, leading to “unnecessary costs” for the public and the bank to replace them.
While the CBK said it does not oppose cash being used as a gift, it urged people to find alternative ways of presenting money that do not involve physical damage.
Kenya is not the only African nation taking a firm stand against the creative misuse of currency.
In Nigeria, the central bank has cracked down on the traditional practice of “spraying” money at weddings and parties. Several high-profile figures have recently been arrested for “tampering” with the Naira after videos showed them throwing or treading on banknotes.
Similarly, authorities in Ghana have cautioned against “money cakes”, multi-tiered structures made of folded bills, reminding citizens that the Cedi is state property and must be handled with care to avoid high replacement costs.
Kenya is a major global exporter of flowers, and many have welcomed the move, suggesting that actual roses remain the most appropriate gift for the upcoming Valentine’s Day on 14 February.
