Karungi Doreen
The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) has issued a warning to the public not to use banknotes in an improper manner, asserting that such actions are punishable by law.
The warning was based on the realization that some people have been recently been observed folding bank notes, sticking them to various flower bouquets to be used as a gift, or making them into decorative items, thus ruining them.
BNR explained that banknotes are state properties and thus must be respected and preserved. Acts which might harm the banknotes, including folding, writing on them, cutting, piercing, and display, are all prohibited.
The central bank clarified that damaging banknotes can reduce their life span, leading to a financial loss for the country, as it requires substantial efforts to replace them.BNR also reassured the public once more that the misuse of currency is against the law regarding legal tender in Rwanda; violators could face various penalties based on relevant legal statues, including Law No 68/2018, dated 30/08/2018, on matters concerning offenses and penalities in general.
The National Bank of Rwanda asked that the national currency be guarded properly, used only for payment, and purchasing, and not be used as a decorative piece or a gift.
