For as long as many residents of Nairobi can remember, the Kenyan capital has been awash with red every 14 February, as people dress in the color of love or carry red roses. However, a new trend is emerging in recent years: instead of soft petals, some have begun opting for bouquets made out of crisp banknotes in various colors. This trend has spread to other African countries, prompting central banks in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, and Namibia to issue public warnings against the practice of damaging or defacing banknotes in the creation of these cash bouquets.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) highlights the risks involved, as damaged notes can be rejected by ATMs and sorting machines, ultimately costing taxpayers. While the CBK does not oppose the use of cash gifts, it warns against practices that could lead to legal repercussions, including potential imprisonment for those who damage currency.
The popularity of cash bouquets can be attributed to increased visibility from social media influencers and celebrities who present them on various occasions, continuing beyond Valentine’s Day to birthdays and other celebrations. Florists have reported a significant rise in orders despite the risks outlined by the central banks, highlighting a cultural shift that prioritizes monetary gifts, with some individuals expressing concern that this trend showcases a growing tendency toward materialism.
While many embrace this new form of gifting as practical—taking away the stress of selecting a gift—others argue that it diminishes the romantic sentiment traditionally meant for such occasions. Some prefer classic flowers, viewing the cash bouquet culture as a manifestation of peer pressure and a crass display of wealth.
The critique extends beyond personal taste; economic experts suggest that the trend reflects a broader capitalist influence within societies, where consumerism takes precedence over sentimental expressions of affection.
Despite the warning, creative solutions are already surfacing. Florists like Angela Muthoni are designing bouquets with transparent pockets to safely hold cash without damage, or even considering 'digital bouquets.' The emergence of alternative currency, like US dollars, raises questions about the sustainability of this trend in light of regulatory pressures.
As such hybrid creations continue to evolve, the money bouquet culture remains a contentious topic, reflective of changing practices, modern relationships, and societal values in Kenya.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) highlights the risks involved, as damaged notes can be rejected by ATMs and sorting machines, ultimately costing taxpayers. While the CBK does not oppose the use of cash gifts, it warns against practices that could lead to legal repercussions, including potential imprisonment for those who damage currency.
The popularity of cash bouquets can be attributed to increased visibility from social media influencers and celebrities who present them on various occasions, continuing beyond Valentine’s Day to birthdays and other celebrations. Florists have reported a significant rise in orders despite the risks outlined by the central banks, highlighting a cultural shift that prioritizes monetary gifts, with some individuals expressing concern that this trend showcases a growing tendency toward materialism.
While many embrace this new form of gifting as practical—taking away the stress of selecting a gift—others argue that it diminishes the romantic sentiment traditionally meant for such occasions. Some prefer classic flowers, viewing the cash bouquet culture as a manifestation of peer pressure and a crass display of wealth.
The critique extends beyond personal taste; economic experts suggest that the trend reflects a broader capitalist influence within societies, where consumerism takes precedence over sentimental expressions of affection.
Despite the warning, creative solutions are already surfacing. Florists like Angela Muthoni are designing bouquets with transparent pockets to safely hold cash without damage, or even considering 'digital bouquets.' The emergence of alternative currency, like US dollars, raises questions about the sustainability of this trend in light of regulatory pressures.
As such hybrid creations continue to evolve, the money bouquet culture remains a contentious topic, reflective of changing practices, modern relationships, and societal values in Kenya.
