As Valentine’s Day approaches, Kenyan influencer Liz Jackson has announced a unique plan for her Saturday, February 14.
She intends to spend the day monitoring social media for a specific type of legal violation.
Jackson shared her message via an Instagram story. She told her followers that she would be watching for anyone using Kenyan banknotes to create money bouquets.
These gifts have become a popular trend for lovers, but they are now under heavy scrutiny from the authorities.
A New Role for Valentine’s Day
In her social media post, Jackson was clear about her intentions for Saturday, 14 February. She stated that she would personally be tagging CBK if she saw anyone defacing the national currency.
She posted a screenshot reading: “I personally will be tagging CBK if I saw someone defacing our currency in the name of money bouquet! We must be law-abiding citizens!"
She then jokingly seconded the message, saying, “Kazi yangu next week Saturday.”
Her comments followed a major announcement from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) regarding the physical treatment of banknotes.
The CBK Crackdown
On 2 February 2026, the CBK released a public notice to stop the "misuse" of the Shilling. For years, florists have folded, rolled, and glued notes to look like roses. The regulator warned that these practices compromise the integrity of the currency.
ALSO READ: ‘Saved From Social Pressure’: Men’s Reactions as CBK Declares Money Bouquets Illegal
The bank highlighted several specific issues. They noted that using staples, pins, or adhesives makes notes unsuitable for circulation. Furthermore, damaged notes can cause chaos for the financial infrastructure.
They often interfere with the operation of ATMs and counting machines.
The Legal and Economic Cost
Defacing currency is more than just a policy issue; it is a crime in Kenya. Under Section 367 of the Penal Code, anyone who willfully defaces, mutilates, or in any way impairs a note is committing an offence. This can lead to penalties, including potential imprisonment.
The CBK emphasized that the trend has a real economic impact. When notes are damaged, they must be withdrawn and replaced early. This creates an avoidable cost for both the taxpayer and the Bank.
Relief and New Trends
While some are disappointed, many Kenyan men have expressed a sense of relief. On social media, users described the CBK notice as a "93rd-minute assist" that saves them from expensive gifting expectations.
"Thank you, you saved us from social pressure this Valentine’s,” Aristocrat45 (@genred5) reacted on X.
Some people are already looking for loopholes. There is a growing discussion about using the U.S. dollar for bouquets instead. Some believe foreign currency might be more durable or less likely to result in local legal trouble.
However, the CBK is urging the public to return to traditional, non-damaging methods of gifting.
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