A cross-section of Ghanaian youth has indicated that they would prioritise friendship and self-care over romantic dates this Valentine’s Day, which is observed in Ghana as National Chocolate Day.
A survey conducted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Tema among young professionals and students revealed a growing trend where individuals, particularly those who are single, exchange gifts and celebrate mutual bonds, to strengthen their relationships.
In contrast to the usual couple outings and high chocolate purchases, this movement focuses on self-care and bonding.
Ms Emmanuella Adu told the GNA that the day now helps build broader connections beyond romantic partners.
“Some people can ask their friends to be their Valentine; if they agree, they can go out together to chill or even buy chocolate for each other,” she noted.
Ms Adu emphasised that this inclusive approach allows single individuals to feel connected, stating it extends to siblings and parents.
She added that for her, relaxing at home with movies was a preferred option after visiting friends to avoid loneliness, noting that Netflix and chill was her new way of killing time.
Mr John Baidoo, an entrepreneur, shared that he does not celebrate specific holidays like Valentine’s Day, preferring instead to show appreciation to friends and family through everyday gestures rather than on designated themed days.
Ms Araba Thompson, a shop assistant, said the day was reserved for personal rejuvenation, saying, “After a long, stressful month at work, the last thing I want to do is put on a fancy outfit and make small talk.
“I’m planning on turning off my phone, ordering my favourite takeout, watching movies, and just relaxing. It’s a dedicated day to loving myself first,” she said.
Ms Thompson added that her decision was not based on being single but rather on a need to recover from a busy month, opting out of outings even with potential partners.
Ms Samuella Oteng, a postgraduate student, criticised the commercialisation of the day, stating she preferred celebrating with friends to ease financial pressure.
“Honestly, my partner and I do nice things for each other all year round. And I think Valentine’s feels so commercialised and high-pressure. I’d rather not steer my partner to give me a bigger surprise than he usually does.
“Like I discussed with him, let’s contribute as a friend group and celebrate together in one person’s house. And that’s exactly what we’ll be doing. It feels more genuine, and we get to share our love with our friends with a divided cost,” she said.
Ms Oteng advised couples and the youth to prioritise savings, noting that daily life brings heavier financial burdens than Valentine’s Day requirements.
Another youth, Mr Daniel Antwi, shared that his extended family celebrates the day together, especially if it falls on a non-working day.
“I’d have to travel today to the Western Region to make it in time to celebrate with my siblings and cousins. As a family we often join resources to see each other on occasions to see how everyone is faring, and my girlfriend is very much aware.
“I’ll be going with her, as that’s what we’ve been doing for the three years we’ve been dating,” he said.
