Michelle Masanga
GWERU: We may never know if St Valentine, a martyr beheaded for officiating the forbidden weddings of persecuted Christians, was keen on chocolate and flowers.
But we do know that millions of people around the world will be using those very items to celebrate his name on February 14.
Of course, not all consumers enjoy Valentine’s Day rituals.
For many, there is pressure attached to romantic shopping, while for others it is just an unwelcome reminder of their single status.
In this regard, saxophonists often referred to vakomana vemabhoisvo were trending in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare and obviously cashing in well from those who celebrated love.
Gweru businesses were no exception with major outlets as the The Village Lodges and Milan restaurant hosting top musicians, Kae Chaps and Nyasha David respectively.
The Village Lodges however pulled bigger numbers compared to other outlets hosting the same dinner with revellers treated to a dinner and entertainment spiced up with several games and prizes for attending couples.
“It is a time that is often converted into profits but performing for an energetic full house gives positive energy into every artist and I can say I was happy to be part of the Valentine’s gig here,” Kae Chaps said after his performance.
“Our profit is community acceptance and we are glad to be hosting the community that has supported us for years. We always feel good to have positive responses to initiatives we plan for the community as well as it shows we are relevant in the environment we are operating in,” added The Village Lodges management.
So, although it might not sound very romantic, it’s worth remembering that while money can’t buy you love, love can provide a significant boost to the economy.