As Valentine’s Day approaches, businesses across Kigali are gearing up for a surge in activity ahead of February 14. This year’s celebration falls on a weekend, a factor many business owners say could significantly boost sales and customer turnout. In this article, The New Times speaks to flower vendors, jewellery dealers, restaurant managers, clothing retailers and gift shop owners to understand how they are preparing for the occasion. From stocking up on popular items to rolling out special offers and extending business hours, traders shared their expectations and how the timing of the celebration could shape demand. ALSO READ: Princess Lover in Kigali ahead of Valentine’s Day concert Jeanette Byukusenge, a clothing retailer operating in downtown Kigali, says this year’s Valentine’s Day has lifted traders’ spirits because it falls on a weekend. She expects higher foot traffic compared to previous years when the celebration landed on a weekday. “The special thing about this Valentine’s is that it’s on a weekend. I’m expecting more walk-ins than usual,” she said. “We have promotional prices where customers get a 20 per cent discount when they buy a dress and a handbag together. If they buy a dress or a bag only, they get a 10 per cent discount, which will run until Tuesday.” Byukusenge said the promotions are designed to attract customers seeking coordinated outfits, while extending the offer beyond February 14 caters to shoppers who may buy after the weekend. Jean-Pierre Ndagijimana, a flower vendor in Kigali, says demand has already picked up, with more customers placing advance orders than usual. “I normally sell flowers to people working in town, those going to the airport or buying for birthdays,” he said. “But now many people are calling to book flowers for Valentine’s in advance—even people I didn’t expect. As a seller, I’m very happy and can’t wait for Saturday.” Ndagijimana noted that advance bookings are uncommon in his day-to-day business, which typically depends on walk-in customers. The increase in early orders, he said, points to stronger-than-usual demand. At a jewellery store in Kigali, Shemsa Umunyana says Valentine’s Day has prompted the business to introduce discounts and decorate the shop in anticipation of increased customer traffic. “We have a 50 per cent offer during this Valentine period, and we only sell Italian silver jewellery,” she said. “Usually, people come occasionally to buy rings for proposals, but during Valentine’s we expect more customers because of the promotion.” Umunyana added that while engagement ring purchases happen throughout the year, Valentine’s Day typically drives heightened interest in jewellery. Restaurant operators are also preparing for a busy weekend. Willy Habagakiza, who runs a restaurant in Kigali, says the business has introduced a special Valentine’s package for couples and has begun stocking supplies. “We have a promotion for two and started stocking up yesterday,” he said. “Couples will get a three-course meal at a promotional price of Rwf 25,000 for two people. They’ll also receive gifts to take home, including roses. We’re very excited and expecting a strong turnout.” Habagakiza said the package targets couples looking for an affordable dining experience, adding that weekend celebrations usually attract more reservations than weekday ones. Similarly, clothing retailer Hope Muhoza says she has already received advance orders, an early indicator of strong interest. “I’m excited because even today people were calling to order outfits for their partners in advance,” she said. “I initially introduced a 10 per cent discount, but it will only run until Sunday.” Muhoza said early inquiries are helping her gauge demand ahead of the weekend, with limited-time offers encouraging customers to shop early.
