Uganda and Rwanda have moved in a similar direction to Kenya by discouraging the use of cash in decorative arrangements such as money bouquets.
This shift comes shortly after the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announced restrictions on using banknotes in decorative displays, a decision that now seems to be influencing monetary authorities across the region.
On February 2, the CBK explained that although giving cash as a gift is perfectly acceptable, the techniques commonly used to turn money into bouquets including folding, rolling, stapling, or pinning cause physical damage to the notes. Once damaged, the notes are no longer suitable for circulation.
The Kenyan regulator further pointed out that turning banknotes into decorative items violates Section 367 of the Penal Code. This law forbids any action that leads to the defacement, mutilation, or general damage of currency notes.
In Uganda, the Bank of Uganda released a public advisory on Friday, February 6, specifically warning florists, event designers, and members of the public against using banknotes in bouquets and decorative displays.
The Ugandan central bank noted that once notes are damaged, they cannot function in ATMs or automated counting systems. This creates additional costs because such notes must be withdrawn and replaced using public funds.
"Bank of Uganda reminds the public that mutilating or defacing Uganda Shilling banknotes is prohibited. This includes using notes in floral bouquets, money cakes, or decorative gifts by glueing, taping, or pinning them," Ugandan regulator said.
"While cash gifts are welcome, currency should remain in usable condition. Damaged notes can't be processed by ATMs and counting machines, leading to costly early replacement," it added.
In the same way, the National Bank of Rwanda has also issued an official communication prohibiting the use of banknotes for celebratory or decorative purposes.
The bank warned that anyone who intentionally damages Rwandan currency is committing an offence that can be punished under the law.
According to the regulator, these actions also disrupt the efficiency of the national cash distribution network.
"Central Bank of Rwanda continues to see the misuse of Rwandan francs, where banknotes and coins are used to wrap flowers given as gifts and other activities related to arranging, preparing or decorating," the Rwandan Bank stated.
Adding, "Such activities undermine confidence in the currency by damaging it and causing it to become extremely defective, thus creating difficulties in financial management and administration."
