Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and couples worldwide are planning to make the
day memorable. February 14 has been a day for lovers to express their
love and affection. Over the years, it has been marked by gifting loved
ones and showing undying love for each other.
Every year, love fills the air, red becomes the colour of the day and lovers
show each other affection and kind gestures while reminiscing fond
memories of each other.
Speaking to Mak Eye, Francis - a relationship expert says the materialistic nature of
Valentines has contributed to the growth of its popularity in Uganda.
“In recent years, thanks to global materialistic culture fueled by
Westernism, Valentine’s Day has been recognized in Uganda,” Francis
said.
In Uganda, cities turn red as the colour of love and affection dominates
the day. Additionally, couples exchange gifts to show their
appreciation, care, and kind gesture.
However, the demand for giftings has blurred the true meaning of Valentine’s, from love and affection to materialism.
In a phone interview, Francis said Valentines is associated with the flowers and chocolates that lovers gift to their partners.
He further stated that every waking day presents opportunities to do the right thing towards your partner and therefore reassurance of commitment and appreciation of each other should be done often.
Unresponsiveness to such gestures, he says, will provide no meaning if it is done just for a day.
Couples have also been advised to share their dreams together, pray for each
other, offer support, and build each other’s self-esteem beyond
Valentine’s Day.
Traditionally, men have always been the ones gifting during Valentine’s Day as the women take a step back to be only receivers.
But amid the gifts and dates extended to loved ones on this day, the
question of whether women should gift their male lovers has always
popped up.
The perception has also been that men do not harbor any expectations when it comes to receiving gifts.
However, with the dynamics of the modern world, the current generation of men
could also appreciate their partner’s generosity and thoughtfulness on
that day.
According to Akuka, the current generation of men appreciate gifts and therefore could be expecting reciprocation.
“In this new generation of young men who found Valentine’s Day alive in our
society, they would care about reciprocity,” he stated.