The National Bank of Rwanda has issued a strong warning to the public over the growing practice of using Rwandan Franc banknotes for decoration, saying the trend is damaging the currency and placing an unnecessary burden on the country’s economy.
In a statement released on Thursday, February 5, 2026, the central bank raised concern over the use of banknotes in bouquets, floral designs and other gift arrangements, practices it says are steadily harming the quality of money in circulation. The Bank reaffirmed that it is the only institution legally mandated to issue, manage and protect Rwanda’s national currency.
According to the notice, florists, event decorators, traders and gifting stylists have increasingly been using banknotes as decorative items during social functions and ceremonies.
“These banknotes are folded, glued, taped, pinned, clipped, or affixed using adhesives as part of gifts for social events and ceremonies,” the statement explained.
The Bank warned that such handling causes physical damage that makes the notes unusable in cash-handling systems.
“Such practices compromise the integrity of Rwandan Franc banknotes, rendering them unsuitable for use in cash-handling and processing equipment, including cash counting machines and ATMs.”
As a result, damaged notes have to be withdrawn earlier than expected and replaced, leading to added costs for the National Bank of Rwanda and the wider economy. Officials said these costs are avoidable and place pressure on public resources.
The Bank cautioned the public against continuing the practice, saying it undermines the quality and lifespan of the currency. It reminded citizens that damaging the national currency is not just careless but illegal.
The statement cited Law N° 68/2018 of August 30, 2018, which makes it an offence to willfully deface, mutilate or impair banknotes and coins. Those found engaging in such acts risk facing legal action.
Deputy Governor Nick Barigye, who is also the Acting Governor, stressed the Bank’s responsibility to protect the country’s money.
“The National Bank of Rwanda remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the national currency in circulation. We will continue to undertake public sensitization and stakeholder engagement to protect the quality, usability, and public confidence in Rwandan Franc banknotes.”
The Bank noted that Rwanda’s banknotes and coins are produced using durable materials and security features meant to keep them in circulation for long periods, support trust in the financial system and promote economic stability.
However, the misuse of banknotes for decoration weakens these efforts and threatens the smooth flow of cash across the economy.
Beyond legal consequences, the National Bank urged the public to rethink gift choices and avoid practices that damage the currency.
“Thoughtful gifts don’t have to cost our Francs their future,” the notice stated.
The warning forms part of a wider public awareness campaign by the Bank aimed at preserving the integrity of the national currency and ensuring the smooth operation of the cash system. Officials noted that damaged banknotes often disrupt automated banking equipment, raising costs for banks and other financial institutions.
The National Bank of Rwanda appealed to individuals, businesses and event planners to respect the currency by avoiding the use of banknotes in bouquets, floral displays or any decorative form.
By protecting the quality of the currency, the Bank said, the public helps cut replacement costs and supports the country’s economic stability.
For more information, the National Bank of Rwanda said it can be reached through its official channels, including its website, email and telephone contacts.
The move by the central bank underscores its firm stance on protecting Rwanda’s monetary system and serves as a reminder that the national currency is a shared asset that must be treated with care and respect.
