The Bank of Uganda has cautioned the public against mutilating or defacing Uganda Shilling banknotes and coins, warning that the growing practice of turning cash into decorative gifts is damaging the country’s currency.
In a public notice, the central bank said florists, designers, gifting stylists and their clients should stop using banknotes in money bouquets, cakes and similar displays where notes are glued, taped, pinned or clipped together.
The Bank explained that such handling destroys the usability of the notes and prevents them from being processed by cash counting machines and automated teller machines, which are critical to the currency distribution system.
Officials added that damaged notes must be withdrawn from circulation earlier than planned, creating avoidable replacement costs that ultimately affect the public.
While the Bank does not object to cash being given as a gift, it emphasized that the exchange must respect the normal use of money as a means of payment.
“Let’s preserve the integrity of our national currency for everyone’s benefit,” the Bank said.
The Bank of Uganda reiterated its mandate to safeguard the shilling so it can effectively serve as a medium of exchange and a store of value.
