Valentine's cash bouquets could land you in jail, warns Central Bank

The Bank of Botswana has warned members of the public against turning banknotes into Valentine's Day "cash bouquets" or decorative displays, saying the practice is illegal and undermines the integrity of Botswana's currency.

In a public statement issued on February 12, the central bank said it had observed a growing trend of pula banknotes being used in money bouquets, cake decorations and confetti-style displays - particularly during celebrations. It said such conduct violates laws governing the proper handling of currency.

The bank cited Section 27 of the Bank of Botswana Act as well as its Clean Banknotes and Coin Policy, both of which prohibit the mutilation or improper handling of banknotes and coins.

According to the central bank, actions such as tearing, stapling, perforating, burning, writing on, or attaching adhesives to banknotes constitute offences and may attract fines, imprisonment, or both.

"Banknotes and coin must be looked after carefully to ensure that they remain clean and can last long," the bank said, warning that misuse could render currency unfit for circulation and erode public confidence.

The Bank of Botswana also cautioned against reproducing or photocopying banknotes without prior authorisation, stressing that such acts are unlawful.

The warning comes ahead of Valentine's Day on February 14, a period when elaborate cash bouquets and decorative money gifts have surged in popularity, largely driven by social media trends.

Authorities have urged citizens to handle currency responsibly and report any suspected misuse to the central bank or the nearest police station, emphasising that safeguarding the quality of banknotes is critical to maintaining trust in the national currency.