The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has issued a warning to the public over the growing trend of using banknotes as decorative items during celebrations, saying the practice damages currency and creates avoidable economic costs.
In a statement released on February 5, the central bank noted that Rwandan franc notes and coins are increasingly being turned into money bouquets, floral-style displays, and artistic arrangements at weddings, parties, and other social functions.
According to BNR, the trend is largely driven by florists, event planners, gift stylists, designers, traders, and their clients who use cash as part of decorative concepts.
The bank explained that during these processes, banknotes are often folded tightly, glued, taped, pinned, clipped, or attached using various adhesives — actions that weaken and destroy the physical condition of the currency.
Once damaged, the notes can no longer be processed by essential cash-handling machines such as ATMs and currency-counting equipment, which play a key role in Rwanda’s financial system.
BNR said this leads to early withdrawal and replacement of banknotes, resulting in unnecessary expenses that ultimately affect the national economy.
As the institution responsible for issuing and protecting Rwanda’s currency, the central bank strongly discouraged any activity that defaces or interferes with the integrity of the Rwandan franc.
“The National Bank of Rwanda reminds the public that deliberately damaging or altering a Rwandan banknote is an offence punishable under Law No. 68/2018 of 30/08/2018,” the statement read.
Under Article 270 of the law on offences and penalties, anyone found guilty of intentionally damaging money faces a prison sentence of between two and three months.
BNR reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the quality and trust of the national currency, adding that it will continue engaging the public and stakeholders to raise awareness about proper handling of banknotes.
The bank also pointed out that similar practices have emerged in other countries.
Earlier this week, on February 2, 2026, the Central Bank of Kenya issued a comparable warning after noticing the use of Kenyan shilling notes in decorative bouquets and ornamental displays. Kenyan authorities cautioned that defacing currency is a serious offence, punishable by penalties including imprisonment of up to seven years under national law.
KIGALI TIMES