The Bank of Uganda has issued a strong warning to the public regarding the misuse of Uganda Shilling currency, urging everyone to preserve the integrity of banknotes and coins. The central bank specifically cautioned florists, designers, gifting stylists, and clients against using brand-new banknotes in bouquets, money cakes, or other decorative gifts where the notes are glued, taped, pinned, or fastened together in any way.

According to the Bank, such practices compromise the usability of currency, making affected banknotes unsuitable for cash processing machines, counting equipment, and ATMs. When notes are damaged, they must be withdrawn from circulation and replaced prematurely, which increases costs for the public and reduces the efficiency of the national cash distribution system.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Bank of Uganda’s reminder is timely, as many Ugandans may use cash in bouquets, money cakes, or decorative gifts to celebrate the occasion.

While the Bank does not discourage giving cash as gifts, it emphasizes that currency should remain in its normal, usable condition. Cash is meant to function as a medium of exchange and a store of value, and the misuse of banknotes undermines these essential roles. The Bank of Uganda is committed to ensuring that all currency in circulation retains its functionality and integrity for the benefit of every citizen.

The advisory also highlights the potential harm to businesses that handle cash regularly. Banks, retailers, and other institutions rely on automated cash-counting machines and ATMs, which cannot process damaged or defaced notes. When notes are glued together, pinned, or otherwise altered, these machines cannot read them, leading to operational delays and additional costs to replace unusable currency.

Culturally, using money as gifts in Uganda is common for weddings, birthdays, graduations, and other social events. However, the Bank’s caution serves as a reminder that currency should be exchanged in a way that maintains its utility. For individuals and businesses who wish to give cash as part of a creative gift, alternatives include using envelopes, decorative boxes, or other non-destructive methods to present the money without damaging the banknotes.

The Bank of Uganda also encourages the public to report any practices or products that involve the defacement of currency to safeguard the national currency’s integrity. The institution remains vigilant in protecting the value of the Uganda Shilling and ensuring that all notes in circulation are fit for purpose.

The Bank continues to educate the public about proper currency use while reinforcing the importance of maintaining banknotes in a condition suitable for all financial transactions.

By following these guidelines, individuals, businesses, and event organizers can contribute to the proper use of Uganda Shilling notes, avoid unnecessary replacement costs, and help maintain the smooth functioning of the country’s cash distribution system. Preserving the quality of banknotes ensures that the currency remains a reliable medium for everyday transactions and a trusted store of value for all Ugandans.