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Cash bouquets replace flowers as Valentine's Day gift in Kenya
Nairobi's traditional Valentine's Day red roses are being overshadowed by elaborate bouquets made from banknotes, prompting warnings from central banks across Africa.
Trend gains popularity despite regulatory concerns
In Kenya and neighboring countries, crisp banknotes-folded, rolled, or fastened into floral arrangements-have become a sought-after alternative to flowers. The trend, popularized by celebrities and social media influencers, extends beyond Valentine's Day to birthdays and other celebrations.
Florist Angela Muthoni, who runs Gift and Flowers in central Nairobi, reports receiving 15 to 20 daily orders for cash bouquets in the lead-up to February 14, despite official warnings. Prices range from 1,000 Kenyan shillings ($8) to as much as a million shillings ($7,700), catering to various budgets.
Central banks crack down on damaged currency
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and regulators in Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, and Namibia have issued public advisories against defacing banknotes. The CBK notes that notes glued, taped, or stapled into bouquets are often rejected by ATMs and cash-sorting machines, incurring costs for replacement.
Under Kenyan law, damaging currency is punishable by up to seven years in prison. The CBK clarified it does not oppose cash gifts but condemns practices that harm banknotes.
Debate over materialism and cultural shifts
Opinions on the trend are divided. Some Kenyans, like 24-year-old Haskell Austin, view cash bouquets as materialistic and prefer traditional flowers. "It's peer pressure," he said, advocating for direct cash transfers if money is the gift of choice.
"Everyone loves money. It removes the stress of guessing what someone wants."
Angela Muthoni, Nairobi florist
Others, like university student Benjamin Nambwaya, argue the trend reinforces gendered expectations and strains relationships. "It can destroy relationships when people feel pressured to give money they don't have," he told the BBC.
Economist Odhiambo Ramogi attributes the trend to capitalism and advertising. "Valentine's Day is a marketing opportunity. Africans historically preferred practical gifts over flowers, which are seen as Western," he said.
Innovation and resistance to regulations
Despite warnings, the trend shows no signs of fading. Some creators now use transparent pockets to hold undamaged notes, while others switch to US dollars to bypass local regulations. Muthoni is exploring digital bouquets as an alternative.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with humor emerging-like memes of bouquets made from rolled chapati bread. Yet, for many, the appeal of cash remains strong. "Who doesn't love money?" said Nicole Rono, a Nairobi resident. "Flowers are nice, but cash is practical."
