Today is February 14, the day of lovers. It’s that time of the year when people all over the world officially celebrate love. On this day, lovers get to display their affection to one another with many dressing in red-the color of love.

The New Times’ Sharon Kantengwa and Linah Umwali carried out a survey on the streets of Kigali, where they interviewed a cross section of people on their thoughts about the romantic day, and how they intend to spend it.

Excerpts; 

Lucky Nzeyimana, Royal TV presenter:

I just know Valentine’s Day to be a day for lovers. Being a Muslim, it is against my faith to celebrate it.

Besides my religion, I do not believe in singling out one day, in the entire year to prove love.

Everyday should be a special and different day for your loved one.

My message on Valentine’s Day, to my wife is that I will love her every day, and will not stop proving it.

One day will not define our love. 

Enock Luyonza, Creative director:

This day should not be just for couples.

We are all wired to love and be loved and without love, we become mobile zombies walking on the planet, where love is the prerequisite for living.

We therefore have to take this moment and commit to loving the people we care about, and most importantly, love without expectations.

Theophile Twagirimana, works at Frozen Yoghurt Bar:

Valentine’s Day is a special day named after the priest and Saint Valentine that should be celebrated by lovers.

Since I’m single, I don’t have any major plans for the day.

Prossy Namanya, business lady:

Valentine’s Day is a day of joy and surprises for couples genuinely in love.

However, since I am single, I do not think I will celebrate it.

Instead, I will be at work attending to customers, and we will provide discounts to our loyal clients, as a way of celebrating the day with them.