Philemon Jambaya
Zim Now Editor
A vibrant scene of color and fragrance has enveloped Africa Unity Square today, as Harare residents embrace the spirit of Valentine's Day. The usual hum of city traffic is punctuated by the cheerful chatter of couples, the playful banter of friends, and the enthusiastic calls of flower vendors, all contributing to a palpable atmosphere of love and affection. At the heart of this romantic bustle lies the square’s flower market, a veritable hive of activity.
From the early hours, the square has been transformed into a floral paradise. Stalls overflow with bouquets of every imaginable variety: classic red roses, symbolizing passionate love; delicate lilies, representing purity and beauty; vibrant sunflowers, radiating warmth and joy; and a kaleidoscope of other blooms, each carrying its own special message. The air is thick with the sweet perfume of fresh flowers, a sensory delight that adds to the romantic ambiance.
For florists, Valentine's Day is undoubtedly the busiest and most lucrative day of the year. Vendors, some of whom have been preparing for this day for weeks, are working tirelessly to meet the surging demand. Their hands move swiftly, arranging bouquets with artistic flair, wrapping them in colorful cellophane, and tying them with satin ribbons. The smiles on their faces are as bright as the flowers they sell, reflecting the joy of the occasion and the healthy profits they are making.
“Valentine’s Day is our Christmas,” says Maria Murwira, a florist who has been selling flowers at Africa Unity Square for over a decade. “We work hard, but it’s worth it. Seeing the happiness on people’s faces when they buy flowers for their loved ones makes it all worthwhile.”
The square is a microcosm of Harare itself, reflecting the diversity of its people and the myriad ways they express love. Young couples stroll hand in hand, carefully selecting the perfect bouquet to express their affection. Friends exchange flowers as tokens of appreciation and platonic love. Even those who are single or far from their loved ones can be seen buying flowers, perhaps to brighten their own day or to gift to someone special in their lives.
“I’m sending these roses to my mother,” shares a young man named Tendai Mtetwa. “She’s the most important woman in my life, and I wanted to show her how much I love her.”
Beyond the flowers, other vendors are also capitalizing on the Valentine's Day rush. Stalls selling chocolates, balloons, and other gifts add to the festive atmosphere. Food vendors offer special Valentine's Day treats, further enhancing the celebratory mood.
As the day progresses, Africa Unity Square remains the epicenter of Valentine's Day celebrations in Harare. The flow of people shows no sign of slowing down, and the flower market continues to thrive.
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