By Desmond Nleya
Kenya’s Central Bank has issued a warning against the growing trend of turning banknotes into decorative “cash bouquets,” saying the practice is illegal and could result in up to seven years in prison.
The social media–driven trend involves rolling, folding, gluing, or pinning real currency into flower-like arrangements for birthdays, graduations, and romantic celebrations. But according to the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), such actions amount to defacing legal tender and undermine the integrity of the country’s currency.
In a statement released on Monday, the CBK explained that notes used in these displays are often stapled, glued, or pierced—damage that prevents them from being processed by ATMs and cash-counting machines. This, the bank said, creates unnecessary replacement costs for both the public and financial institutions.
While the CBK clarified that it does not object to gifting money, it urged Kenyans to present cash in ways that do not physically damage banknotes.
The announcement sparked mixed reactions online. Some social media users welcomed the move, joking that it offers a perfect excuse to avoid the increasingly costly trend ahead of Valentine’s Day on 14 February.
Kenya joins other African nations taking action against the misuse of currency. In Nigeria, authorities have intensified enforcement against the practice of “spraying” money at social events, with several prominent individuals recently arrested for mishandling the Naira. Ghana has also warned against so-called “money cakes,” elaborate tiered displays made from folded bills, reminding citizens that the Cedi is state property and must be treated responsibly.
As one of the world’s leading flower exporters, many in Kenya have embraced the decision—suggesting that traditional roses may be the better, and safer, romantic gesture this Valentine’s season.
