The Central Bank of Kenya warned against using money for bouquets

Ruined cash is clogging the money system, and the central bank is done watching people turn usable notes into arts-and-crafts casualties.

Cash decoration trend called out

• Central Bank of Kenya flagged the rise of money-as-decor.
• Folded note bouquets are showing up at celebrations.
• Weddings and graduations are common hotspots.

What actually wrecks the notes

• Physical tinkering bends and scars the paper.
• Glue, pins, and tape permanently mess them up.
• Once altered, the bills stop circulating properly.

Why banks are annoyed

• Damaged cash jams ATMs and counting machines.
• Sorting gear rejects the notes outright.
• That forces early replacement at public expense.

Legal reality check

• Kenyan law bans defacing currency outright.
• Section 367 treats mutilation as a criminal act.
• Decorative intent does not soften that rule.

What the regulator wants instead

• Cash gifts are still fine if left untouched.
• Presentation should not harm the bills.
• Alternative display methods were strongly encouraged.

Why this matters long term

• Healthy notes keep the cash system running.
• Fewer replacements mean lower national costs.
• The value of the shilling stays protected.