CBK Warns Kenyans Against Cash Flower Bouquets: What the Law, Economy Say
CBK Warns Kenyans Against Cash Flower Bouquets: What the Law, Economy, and Common Sense Say
TL;DR: CBK has warned against using banknotes for decorative purposes such as cash flower bouquets. Damaging currency disrupts cash circulation, increases replacement costs, and may violate Kenyan law. There are safer, legal ways to gift money.
Introduction: Why CBK Stepped In
In recent years, cash flower bouquets and money-themed decorations have become increasingly popular in Kenya, especially during weddings, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and graduations. While visually appealing, these displays often involve folding, pinning, stapling, taping, or gluing Kenya Shilling banknotes into decorative shapes.
On 2 February 2026, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) issued a public notice cautioning the public against this practice. The Bank warned that using banknotes for decorative and celebratory purposes damages currency and undermines its role in the economy.
This warning comes at a time when CBK is already dealing with rising costs across the financial system, including issues related to taxation and investment income. For context, see our detailed guide on taxes and charges on shares in Kenya.
What the CBK Public Notice Says
According to CBK, there is a growing trend where Kenya Shilling notes are used in:
- Cash flower bouquets
- Ornamental and celebratory displays
- Decorative gift arrangements
These practices often involve physical alteration of currency, such as folding, tearing, stapling, pinning, or gluing notes together. CBK warns that this renders banknotes unfit for circulation and difficult to process through cash-handling systems.
Importantly, CBK clarified that gifting cash itself is allowed. The problem arises when the physical condition of banknotes is altered.
Why Damaging Banknotes Is a Serious Issue
1. Cash Circulation and Banking Systems
Modern banking relies heavily on machines such as ATMs and cash-counting equipment. Damaged banknotes are frequently rejected by:
- ATMs
- Cash-counting machines
- Sorting and verification systems
This leads to inefficiencies similar to those caused by misunderstanding financial instruments, such as confusing capital gains and dividends. In both cases, lack of clarity increases costs and errors.
2. Economic Cost to the Public
Replacing damaged currency involves:
- Printing new banknotes
- Secure transportation
- Destruction of unfit notes
These costs are absorbed by the financial system and ultimately passed on to the public. This is why CBK consistently promotes disciplined money use and safer saving options such as Money Market Funds (MMFs).
The Legal Perspective: What Kenyan Law Says
Under the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya), willfully defacing or mutilating currency is an offence. Actions such as tearing, stapling, pinning, cutting, or gluing banknotes may expose individuals to legal consequences.
CBK’s notice is therefore grounded in existing law, not just policy preference.
Why This Trend Became Popular
Cash bouquets became popular due to:
- Social media influence
- The desire to gift money creatively
- The perception of luxury and effort
However, creativity must still operate within legal and economic boundaries.
Safe and Legal Alternatives for Gifting Money
If you want to gift money responsibly, consider:
- Mobile money or bank transfers
- Cash placed neatly in envelopes or greeting cards
- Gift vouchers or prepaid cards
- Non-cash gifts paired with a digital transfer
These options preserve currency integrity while remaining thoughtful.
Conclusion: Money Is Not Decoration
The CBK warning is not about killing celebrations. It is about protecting Kenya’s currency, reducing avoidable costs, and maintaining trust in the financial system.
Money is a public good. How we treat it matters — whether we are investing, saving, or gifting.
About the Author
Postine Ngeli
Finance Writer & Investment Researcher
Founder, Money Market Hub Kenya
Postine Ngeli writes about Kenyan finance, taxation, money market funds, shares, and personal finance, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and practical decision-making.
Join my WhatsApp Channel for practical insights on shares, MMFs, and Kenyan finance:
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Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Always consult qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is gifting cash illegal in Kenya?
No. Gifting cash is legal. Damaging or defacing banknotes is not.
Are cash flower bouquets illegal?
If creating them involves altering or damaging currency, they may violate Kenyan law and CBK guidelines.
Why does CBK care about damaged notes?
Because damaged currency disrupts circulation, increases replacement costs, and affects financial system efficiency.
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