The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has warned Kenyans against damaging Kenya Shilling banknotes as Valentine’s Day approaches, following a growing trend of using cash to make decorative gifts such as flower bouquets and ornamental displays.
In a public notice issued on February 2, 2026, the CBK said it has observed an increase in people folding, rolling, gluing, stapling, or pinning banknotes to create gifts for romantic celebrations, weddings, and birthdays.
The bank cautioned that such practices damage currency and make it unfit for circulation.
Damaged Notes Affect the Financial System
According to the CBK, altered banknotes often fail to work properly in ATMs, cash-counting machines, and sorting equipment, leading to frequent rejection during processing.
This forces the early withdrawal and replacement of damaged notes, a process that is costly to both the public and the central bank.
“Damaging banknotes compromises their integrity and disrupts the smooth operation of the cash system,” the CBK said.
Cash Gifts Allowed—But Without Damage
While the central bank said it does not oppose giving cash as a gift, it emphasized that money should not be altered, defaced, or destroyed in the process.
Banknotes must remain fit to perform their role as a medium of exchange, a store of value, and a unit of account, the CBK added.
Legal Consequences
The CBK reminded Kenyans that defacing currency is a criminal offence under Section 367 of the Penal Code.
The law states that anyone who willfully defaces, mutilates, or damages currency notes issued by lawful authority commits an offence and may face legal consequences.
Call for Alternative Gift Ideas
The bank urged the public to use non-damaging alternatives when presenting monetary gifts, especially during the Valentine’s season when cash bouquets have become popular.
CBK said it will continue public education efforts to protect the integrity of the national currency.
As Valentine’s Day nears, Kenyans are being encouraged to express love and generosity in ways that do not risk damaging money—or breaking the law.
