GABORONE – The Bank of Botswana has warned against turning banknotes into Valentine’s Day “cash bouquets” or decorative displays, saying the practice is illegal and damages the integrity of the country’s currency.
In a public statement issued on February 12, the central bank said it had observed a growing trend of using pula banknotes in money bouquets, cake decorations and confetti-style displays, particularly around celebrations, which it said violates laws governing the handling of currency.
The bank cited Section 27 of the Bank of Botswana Act and its Clean Banknotes and Coin Policy, which prohibit mutilation or improper handling of banknotes and coins.
Actions such as tearing, stapling, perforating, burning, writing on or attaching adhesives to banknotes are considered 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 central bank said, warning that misuse could render currency unfit for circulation and undermine public confidence.
The Bank of Botswana also cautioned against reproducing or photocopying banknotes without permission, saying this too constitutes an offence under the law.
The warning comes ahead of Valentine’s Day on February 14, when elaborate cash bouquets and decorative money gifts have become increasingly popular, fuelled by social media trends.
Authorities urged members of the public to handle currency responsibly and report any misuse to the bank or nearest police station, adding that protecting the quality of banknotes was essential to maintaining trust in the national currency.
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