Kenyans risk facing the law for the growing trend of making romantic cash bouquets from banknotes, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has warned. In a statement issued on Monday, February 2, 2026, CBK cautioned against using Kenya shilling notes for decorative purposes such as bouquets and ornamental displays.

The bank noted that people often fold, glue, staple, or pin banknotes, actions that damage currency and interfere with ATMs and cash-counting machines. CBK said this leads to higher rejection rates, early withdrawal of notes from circulation, and unnecessary costs to the public and the bank.

While giving cash as a gift remains legal, CBK stressed that banknotes must not be altered or defaced. The bank cited Section 367 of the Penal Code, which criminalises damaging currency, and urged Kenyans to choose non-damaging alternatives as Valentine’s Day approaches.