Chronicle Editor
Natalie Adlam
THE 2024 Bulawayo Agricultural Show demonstrated the unwavering spirit of Zimbabweans, showcasing their livestock and crops despite challenging drought conditions. The event saw increased participation across various categories, making it a bustling and vibrant affair.
Cattle
This year’s show featured 58 head of slaughter stock, a reduction of 27 from the previous event. Despite this, the quality surpassed that of 2023, with most entries meeting competition standards. The prestigious Champion Ox title was clinched by City of Kings, presenting a robust animal tipping the scales at 595kg and fetching US$1 200 at auction — a truly deserving victor!
Pedigree Cattle
Seven distinguished breeds graced the event: Beefmaster, Brahman, Holstein, Nkone, Simbra, Simmental and Tuli. A notable increase to 86 head was recorded, up from 28 the previous year. Biano Farm’s exceptional Simmentals earned them both the Senior Champion Bull and Senior Champion Cow accolades. Sifela Brahmans’ elegant grey Brahman secured the Champion Junior Heifer award, while Caman Brahmans’ striking red Brahman took home the Champion Junior Bull title. Esteemed judge John Crawford from Chinhoyi presided over the competition.
Crops (Previous year’s entries in brackets)
The cotton category saw three (17) entries; the broader crop section had 709 (2 401) entries; commercial participants numbered 33 (75); and group entries totalled 12 (18). Representing a cross-section of the agricultural community, farmers from Binga, Bindura, Bubi, Bulawayo, Bulilima, Gwanda, Hwange, Insiza, Lupane, Mangwe, Marondera, Matobo, Nkayi, Tsholotsho, Umguza and Umzingwane participated. Lumene Farmers from Gwanda triumphed as the overall Group winner. Considering the severe El Nino-induced drought, the turnout was commendable. Special thanks to Professor Joseph of Coopers Zimbabwe for gracing the Prize giving ceremony as our Guest of Honour and delivering a captivating speech.
Sheep & Goats
The show registered 38 (139) sheep and 74 (28) goats. Vodloza Farm, under Peter Mukombe’s ownership, won both the Champion Boer Goat and Ewe titles. Butho Dube’s entries swept the Champion Dorper Ram and Ewe categories. The Champion Indigenous Ewe accolade went to Matopo Research Station. Judge Adolf Dube evaluated the entries.
Poultry
A slight decrease to 156 (160) birds was noted compared to 2023. Lupane State University achieved a double win with the Champion Indigenous Cockerel (Isikhova) and Hen (Bosveld). They also claimed the Champion Exotic Cockerel (Light Sussex) title, while Tafanana Chiwashira won the Champion Exotic Hen (Buff Orpington) category. Judges Dave Heathcote, Robert Gono and Lucky Musarandega lent their expertise to the competition.
Home Industries
The junior art and craft segment saw Greystone Montessori and Whitestone Primary emerge as winners in the Pre School and junior school categories, respectively.
The Society’s main arena was once again a hub of activity, with sponsor companies displaying an array of farming implements, tractors, vehicles, seeds, veterinary products and more. Farm & City Centre earned the Best Agricultural Stand accolade, followed by Capital Foods.
Distinguished visitors included His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, and his esteemed guests, President William Ruto from Kenya and Vice-President Kembo Mohadi. Their presence was greatly appreciated. Notably, the Kenyan President has since placed orders for Simmental cattle from BAS exhibitors, a testament to Zimbabwe’s openness for business.
The Society remains dedicated to its mission of fostering interest in agriculture, industry and commerce. It pledges ongoing support for Government programs and future initiatives.
The Show proceeded smoothly, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, exhibitors and judges for their unwavering support of agriculture and the Society. Your contributions are invaluable.
*Natalie Adlam is the administrative officer of the Bulawayo Agricultural Society
Online Reporter
Londile Moyo