Some Zimbabweans say they won’t be buying goodies for their loved ones Sunday to mark St. Valentine’s Day due to the current harsh economic situation in the country.
This comes at a time when most retailers in the city centre have increased their red merchandise, which is a colour associated with Valentine’s Day. Most shops are selling wrapped gifts.
For Adam Hamandishe, Valentine's Day is a special day for him and his loved one and he intends to do something special.
“I intend to go out for dinner with my partner. I am planning to go to Pakare Paye where Oliver Mtukudzi and Sulumani Chimbetu will be playing romantic songs.”
However Eliah Nhtali, another Harare resident, said the prevailing economic difficulties in the country won’t allow him to buy goodies for his loved one.
“With the current economic conditions it is a non-event, things are difficult. You cannot please the one you love due to the economic situation. It is difficult for everyone even the current drought that is wreaking havoc it makes it difficult for someone to look for anything other than food.”
Samson Matembo shared the same views. “The economic situation as you aware is very difficult so I haven't planned for it. Ofcourse in the previous years I have planned for it but this year I am broke and we have since agreed with my partner to make it a normal day.”
For Talent Sibanda, a local city man, religion prevents him from marking Valentine’s Day.
“I am one of the Jehovah Witness followers. I do not believe in Valentine’s Day. It was started by those that want gifts and pagan religions. It is unscriptural and I do not believe in it.”
Boutique owners like Cecelia Mavesere said Valentine’s Day sales appear to be very low this year.
“I have been selling valentines presents for several years. This year the business has been very very low. We used to make profits but this year so far we have not made much.”
Her views were echoed by Abigail Chivi who said there is no way the sales can go up this year due to current harsh economic situation in Zimbabwe.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated on the February 14th every year.
