The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has warned the public against using Kenya Shilling banknotes for decorative or celebratory purposes, including cash bouquets and ornamental displays, as Valentine’s Day nears.

The bank said folding, gluing, stapling, pinning, or otherwise altering notes compromises their integrity, rendering them unsuitable for circulation. Damaged notes can disrupt automated teller machines, cash counting, and sorting equipment, leading to higher rejection rates and unnecessary replacement costs.

While CBK supports the use of cash as gifts, it stressed that banknotes must remain intact to perform their intended function as a medium of exchange. Section 367 of the Penal Code criminalises the defacement or impairment of currency, and offenders may face legal consequences.

The central bank urged citizens to adopt non-damaging alternatives when presenting money and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the quality and usability of Kenya Shilling banknotes, maintaining public confidence in the national currency.