Bank of Uganda Warns Against Using Currency in Floral Bouquets and Creations

he Bank of Uganda (BoU) has issued a cautionary statement, advising the public against using currency banknotes and coins in the creation of bouquets or similar arrangements. The central bank argues that such practices compromise the utility of banknotes, rendering them unsuitable for use in cash processing and distribution equipment, including cash counting machines and ATMs, integral components of the cash distribution systems.

The statement, signed by BoU Communications Director Kenneth Egesa, specifically cautions florists, designers, gifting stylists, and their clients to refrain from incorporating currency banknotes and coins into bouquets or similar creations. The concern is particularly directed at the use of brand-new banknotes affixed together with glue, cello-tape, pins, clips, or other adhesives and fasteners as part of floral arrangements for social events and gifting ceremonies.

The statement emphasizes that such practices result in the destruction of the utility of banknotes, making them incompatible with essential cash processing and distribution machinery. Additionally, it leads to the premature withdrawal of banknotes from circulation, incurring avoidable costs for replacement.

While the Bank of Uganda does not object to the use of cash as a gift, it stresses that any exchange involving banknotes should adhere to normal currency use for facilitating payment transactions. The central bank asserts its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the national currency in circulation, ensuring its functionality as a medium of exchange and store of value.