Keypoints:
- Kenya’s central bank warns against defacing banknotes
- Cash bouquet gifting spreads across African cities
- Debate grows over romance, culture and materialism
EVERY February 14, Nairobi traditionally turns red with roses, heart-shaped decorations and couples celebrating Valentine’s Day. But in recent years, a new symbol of affection has emerged across the Kenyan capital: bouquets crafted not from flowers, but from folded banknotes.
What began as a novelty gift has quickly evolved into a booming trend, fuelled by social media and celebrity influence. Now, however, the growing popularity of ‘cash bouquets’ has prompted warnings from central banks across East and Southern Africa concerned about damage to national currencies.
According to reporting by the BBC, regulators in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana and Namibia have issued public notices cautioning against practices that deface banknotes while assembling decorative money arrangements.
Central bank warns of costly consequences
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) said many of the bouquets involve banknotes being ‘glued, taped, stapled, pinned or otherwise affixed’, actions that can render currency unusable.
Damaged notes are frequently rejected by automated teller machines and cash-sorting systems, forcing authorities to withdraw them from circulation earlier than expected — creating replacement costs ultimately borne by taxpayers.
In its advisory, the CBK clarified that gifting money itself is not prohibited. Instead, the regulator warned against altering legal tender, an offence under Kenyan law that can attract penalties including fines or prison terms of up to seven years.
Despite the warning, demand for cash bouquets remains strong as Valentine’s celebrations approach.
A fast-growing gifting industry
Angela Muthoni, a florist at Gift and Flowers shop in central Nairobi, said money bouquets have surged in popularity over the past two years.
Speaking to the BBC, she explained that orders increase sharply ahead of major celebrations, with customers requesting between 15 and 20 bouquets daily during peak periods.
‘Everyone loves money,’ she said, noting that cash gifts remove the uncertainty of choosing presents.
Bouquets vary widely in value. Some contain modest sums of around 1,000 Kenyan shillings ($8), while luxury versions can reach as much as one million shillings depending on the buyer’s budget.
Designs range from traditional floral arrangements combining cash and fresh flowers to elaborate gift boxes and cake displays incorporating rolled banknotes.
Romance meets materialism debate
The trend has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, highlighting changing attitudes toward romance and consumer culture.
Some residents argue money bouquets reflect increasing materialism and social pressure tied to public displays of affection online.
Haskell Austin, 24, told the BBC he preferred giving flowers, describing cash bouquets as overly materialistic. If money must be given, he said, a simple digital transfer would be more appropriate.
University student Benjamin Nambwaya expressed similar concerns, warning that expensive expectations could strain relationships.
‘I think flowers are cool,’ he said, adding that simple gestures better express affection without financial pressure.
Others see the trend differently. Nicole Rono said cash gifts remain practical and meaningful, particularly during difficult economic times.
Social media accelerates popularity
Online platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have helped popularise money bouquets, with influencers frequently sharing elaborate gifting moments. The practice has expanded beyond Valentine’s Day to birthdays, graduations and weddings, creating year-round demand.
Economic analyst Odhiambo Ramogi told the BBC the phenomenon reflects broader consumer behaviour shaped by marketing and modern celebrations.
‘Capitalistic societies are driven by advertising, and special days like Valentine’s are a very good opportunity,’ he said.
Ramogi added that flower-giving itself has largely Western origins, while gifting money aligns more closely with practical traditions across many African societies.
Innovation emerges amid regulation
While regulators hope warnings may curb harmful practices, businesses are already adapting. Some florists are designing bouquets using transparent holders that protect banknotes, while others are exploring digital gifting concepts.
Muthoni worries restrictions could affect livelihoods built around the growing trade but believes innovation will keep the industry alive.
Online discussions following the CBK advisory have been lively, producing both criticism and humour, including viral memes showing bouquets made from rolled chapati bread.
For now, the shift from roses to rolled currency suggests Valentine’s traditions in parts of Africa are evolving — blending practicality, status and romance in ways authorities are still trying to regulate.
As Muthoni told the BBC: ‘Love people the way they want to be loved.’
