The National Bank of Rwanda (NBR) has issued a firm public warning against the use of Rwandan Franc banknotes and coins for decorative and celebratory purposes, mirroring similar measures previously taken by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
In a public notice dated February 5, 2026, the central bank emphasized that it is the sole authority mandated to manage Rwanda’s national currency and cautioned the public against practices that compromise the integrity of banknotes.
The notice comes amid growing trends where currency notes are used in floral arrangements, bouquets, and other decorative creations during social events and ceremonies.
According to the NBR, banknotes and coins are produced using durable materials and enhanced security features to ensure longevity, maintain public trust in the national currency, and support overall economic stability.
However, the bank expressed concern that the continued use of currency in decorative designs by florists, traders, event decorators, designers, gifting stylists, and their clients is causing avoidable damage.
The central bank observed that in such practices, banknotes are often folded, glued, taped, pinned, clipped, or affixed using adhesives and fastening materials.
These actions render the notes unsuitable for use in cash-handling and processing equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and cash-counting machines, which are critical to Rwanda’s cash distribution system.
As a result, damaged banknotes are withdrawn prematurely from circulation and replaced, leading to unnecessary financial costs.
The NBR stressed that such expenses are avoidable and place an unnecessary burden on the national currency management system.
The bank further reminded the public that willfully defacing, mutilating, or impairing Rwandan currency constitutes a criminal offence.
Such actions are punishable under Law No. 68/2018 of 30/08/2018, which governs the protection and use of Rwanda’s legal tender.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Rwandan Franc, the National Bank of Rwanda stated that it will continue to undertake public sensitization initiatives and engage key stakeholders to protect the quality, usability, and public confidence in the national currency.
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