As Valentine’s Day draws closer, couples across Rwanda are thinking about how or whether to mark the occasion. For some, it is a chance to celebrate love with gifts and quality time; for others, it is simply another day, best approached with caution or reflection. The New Times spoke to people from different walks of life to hear how they plan to spend February 14, how much they intend to spend, and what the day truly means to them. Pastor Appolon Namahoro, 52, Evangelist at ADPR Nyamata, Bugesera As a family, we believe it’s important to celebrate Valentine’s Day because our home is built on a foundation of love. For me, it’s a precious time to reflect on our journey—to look back at our days as a young engaged couple and remember how our love first flourished. I am actually planning a surprise gift for her. I have budgeted Rwf30,000 for the occasion. Since true love is not about the price tag, I know she will appreciate it. I want her to know how much she completes my life and how much I respect her. We got married in December 2008 and celebrated our first Valentine’s a year later. We wanted to start our marriage by acknowledging that love is a journey that leads to the beautiful goal of lifelong companionship. I tell my congregation that celebrating love is a good thing—it comes from God. Just as we celebrate Heroes' Day or other holidays, we should cherish a day dedicated to love. Marie-Aimée Irakoze, 19, staying at home, Mayange, Bugesera District To be honest, I treat it like any other day. I see it as a day where many young girls find themselves facing unplanned pregnancies. People go out to party and drink, and in the heat of the moment, they sometimes end up in situations they are not ready for. I stay home because I do not want to be misled into making a mistake I will regret. My advice specifically to girls is to watch their alcohol intake, come home early, and avoid rushing into physical intimacy. I believe Valentine's Day should not be an excuse to lose your self-control. Emmanuel Bimenyimana, 28, Cashier at Simba Supermarket, Kigali I am well aware that February 14 is Valentine’s Day. My girlfriend and I are already looking forward to it; we have made our plans as a couple, and I have already picked out a gift for her—I am planning on giving her some chocolates. I have set aside Rwf100,000 for the day. We will need it for a night out, and while it feels a bit tight, we are going to make it work. For me, this day is essential because it helps strengthen the joy and love in a relationship. It’s a holiday where you can really take the time to sit down, talk through any issues you might be having, and celebrate the milestones you have reached together. I last celebrated it in 2025, but my first time was back in 2022 when I first started dating. Adronique Tuyisenge, 27, married, Cashier, Rutsiro District Yes, absolutely! I am definitely celebrating Valentine’s Day with my husband. Even though I live in Rutsiro due to work, I will get back home for the day. We are currently on a tight budget, so I am planning to spend about Rwf30,000. You do not always have to go out to make it special, just take home as your resort. He is a huge APR FC fan, so I am getting him a team jersey. I want him to feel loved and realises that I support everything he enjoys. Prosper Muhirwa, 25, glass retailer, Huye district I do not have any plans for Valentine’s Day this year. I have other priorities right now that require my financial attention—specifically, I am focused on getting my Category B driver's license. My partner understands this; I will not be giving her anything big this time around. Even though I am skipping the festivities, I see the value in it. It’s a day for couples to evaluate their relationship, look at how far they have come, and plan for the future. I actually took my partner out last year in 2025. We had a great time sharing a meal, and I gave her a T.I. jacket as a gift. She is the one I love, and if we stay on this path with the same goals, I plan to marry her—hopefully by 2028 once I have settled some things. Valentine's Day serves as a symbolic checkpoint for couples to pause and prioritize their emotional connection amidst the busyness of daily life. For many, it is more than just a day of gift-giving; it is an opportunity for self-evaluation and shared vision. It allows partners to look back at their history, appreciate the growth they have achieved together, and set new intentions for their future.
