Give us balances in coins, not sweets

Shoppers in supermarkets are now being issued with matchboxes, sweets, pepper mints and even airtime instead of getting their balances under the guise that there is shortage of coins in Kenya.

Now that the Central Bank of Kenya has assured that there are enough coins in circulation, supermarkets should stop offering the above commodities in exchange for balances.

Even public service vehicles conductors take advantage of the perceived shortage and keep balances of commuters.

Offering goods instead of balances for transactions is an unscrupulous means employed by traders to increase sales. Ever wondered why candy shelves are often located next to cash tills?

The Central Bank should enforce the order it gave commercial banks to recirculate the coins whenever such legal tender run out of supply.

Kenyans are also known to be hoarding coins in tins, pillows and cupboard lockers since they are bulky.

Worse still are shopkeepers who seem to reject one shilling coins arguing that they cannot buy anything. I think it is illegal to refuse to accept a legal tender.