Nairobi | February 3, 2026
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has issued a public warning over the increasing misuse of Kenya Shilling banknotes for decorative and celebratory purposes, including the creation of cash flower bouquets and ornamental displays.
In a press release dated February 2, 2026, CBK noted that banknotes are increasingly being folded, rolled, glued, taped, stapled, pinned, or fixed using adhesives and other fastening materials. The Bank warned that such practices compromise the integrity of currency and render banknotes unfit for circulation.
According to CBK, the use of adhesives, pins, staples, and similar materials damages banknotes and disrupts the efficient operation of cash-handling equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs), cash counting machines, and currency sorting systems. This damage results in frequent rejection of banknotes during processing and leads to premature withdrawal and replacement of currency at an avoidable cost to the public and the Bank.
While the Central Bank clarified that it does not oppose the use of cash as a gift, it emphasized that monetary gifts should not involve actions that alter, damage, or deface banknotes. CBK stated that currency must remain in a condition that allows it to circulate freely and serve its intended purposes as a medium of exchange, a unit of account, and a store of value.
The Bank further reminded the public that Section 367 of the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Laws of Kenya) prohibits the defacement, mutilation, or impairment of currency notes. Any person who willfully damages or impairs a currency note issued by lawful authority commits an offence under the law.
CBK has therefore urged the public to avoid practices that compromise the integrity of Kenya Shilling banknotes and to adopt alternative, non-damaging methods when presenting monetary gifts.
The Central Bank of Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the national currency and stated that it will continue with public sensitization and stakeholder engagement to protect the quality, usability, and public confidence in Kenya Shilling banknotes in circulation.
