Central Bank of Kenya Warns Against Misuse of Banknotes As Decorations

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has warned against the misuse of Kenya shilling banknotes, citing a growing trend in which currency is being used for decorative and celebratory purposes that damage notes and disrupt cash circulation. In a notice issued on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, the CBK said it has observed increased use of banknotes in cash flower bouquets, ornamental displays and similar items, practices that involve folding, rolling, glueing, or pinning currency. The alert comes amid growing cases of cash being used in flower bouquets, ornamental displays, and similar arrangements. According to the CBK, many banknotes are folded, rolled, glued, taped, stapled, or pinned during such practices. The Bank says these actions compromise the integrity of the currency and render it unfit for circulation. “The use of adhesives, pins, staples, and similar materials damages banknotes and interferes with the efficient operation of cash-handling and processing equipment, including automated teller machines, cash counting machines, and sorting equipment,” the notice states. CBK warns that this leads to increased rejection of banknotes during processing and forces premature withdrawal and replacement at unnecessary cost to the public and the Bank. While acknowledging that cash gifts are acceptable, the Bank emphasised that currency should not be altered, damaged, or defaced in any way. Banknotes should remain in a condition that allows them to circulate freely and perform their intended functions as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value. The Bank also highlighted the legal implications of defacing currency. Section 367 of the Penal Code prohibits the mutilation, defacement, or impairment of any currency note issued by lawful authority. “Any person who willfully defaces, mutilates, or in any way impairs any currency note issued by lawful authority commits an offence under the Penal Code,” the CBK warned. To safeguard the national currency, the Bank urged the public to adopt alternative, non-damaging methods when presenting monetary gifts. “CBK therefore urges the public to refrain from practices that compromise the integrity of Kenya Shilling banknotes,” the notice reads. The CBK reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the quality and usability of Kenya Shilling notes. It said public sensitisation and stakeholder engagement will continue to maintain confidence in the currency. The Bank’s advisory is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that all banknotes in circulation remain intact, usable, and reliable for everyday transactions. Citizens are encouraged to handle cash responsibly and avoid any practices that could render it unfit for use. The public notice, dated February 2, 2026, is a reminder that while creativity and celebrations are encouraged, they should never come at the expense of the integrity of the national currency.