64th Mat’South agricultural show preps underway

Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

PREPARATIONS for the 64th edition of the Matabeleland South Agricultural Show to be held this week in Gwanda town are gathering momentum.

This year’s show will be held under theme: “Revamping the face of agriculture for food security and economic sustainability’, starting Thursday.

Show president, Mr Mkhulunyelwa Ngwenya said they were hopeful this year’s event will make a huge business impact.

“As an organisation, we realise that the Covid-19-induced lockdowns slowed progress in agriculture and other various sectors of the economy,” he said.

“The Matabeleland South Agricultural Show Society (MSASS) is therefore urging everyone, corporates, farmers, organizations and researchers to come up with revised, improved and renewed approaches that will ensure our agriculture provides sufficient, safe, nutritious and preferred food for communities.”

Mr Ngwenya said one of the major attractions this year was the administration of artificial insemination for cattle breeders.

He said their partners and specialists will conduct a practical session and one cattle farmer had offered a venue in close proximity suitable for this exercise.

“This year we are expecting good attendance from new and traditional exhibitors due to relaxed Covid-19 restrictions,” said Mr Ngwenya.

“New exhibitors include IPEC, Turnall Holdings, Department of War Veterans, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and Zimbabwe National Army who had been absent for some time.

“Commercial and Stud cattle breeders from around the province will be showcasing their animals”.

Over 80 crop farmers from Bulilima, Mangwe, Insiza, Beitbridge, Umzingwane, Matobo and Gwanda districts are also expected to attend. -@tupeyo