By Sydney Barson|Yesterday was Valentine’s day, and most Zimbabweans will this year not see love in the air not because they have lost all love but because of the continuing harsh economic climate prevailing under the leadership of President Robert Mugabe’s ZANU PF government.
Valentine’s Day celebrated for love every year on February 14th, is normally a cashcow for the business community but this year, sales were painstakingly low.
In a snap survey carried out by this reporter, it emerged that most lovers have accepted their fate. No money!
Being a leap year its the duty of the females to buy presents for their hubbies, so tradition says. “I told my wife not to bother with buying me a present since we have a lot of pending money issues,” said Joseph Dube of Bulawayo.
Yevai Mutomba of Lupane underscored the need for sacrifice to sustain a loving relationship. Said Mutomba, “indeed there is no money in circulation but we should sacrifice for the sake of love. It’s really difficult but I will strive to do something.”
Sodumehlezi Dube of Hwange said she has ruled out Valentine’s day from her calendar.
“Things are tough, I need money for more pertinent issues like maize and school fees, so Valentine’s is out of my calendar,” she said.
The business community has not been spared, with florists and boutique owners crying foul. “I regret hoarding a lot of flowers, there is basically no business this year,” said Thobekile Ndlovu a Bulawayo florist.
Maud Katema Moyo a beautician and boutique owner lamented the unending hard times.
” Tell me when these hard times are going to end. I am still struggling selling accessories from last year,” said Moyo.
Meanwhile money lenders endorsed the cashless economy mantra. Promise Chapanduka a money lender said, ” the economy is bad and our business is low. Our clients mostly civil servants are not forthcoming.”
Another money lender Sharon Mpofu bemoaned the good old days where everyone was social. She said people are already over burdened with rentals, fees, and maize issues.
Valentine’s day comes within a week of the upcoming $800 000 birthday bash for President Mugabe planned for Masvingo.