Online Reporter
Online Reporter
THE number of exhibitors for this year’s 116th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS), which kicks off on Monday, have risen to 640 in what promises to be an eventful showcase.
Last year, there were 613 exhibitors.
All exhibition halls have also been fully subscribed.
This year’s event will run under the theme “Powering Growth: Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge”.
ZAS chief executive officer Mr Rufaro Alfred Gunundu said the increased participation reflected growing confidence in the show as a platform for business, innovation and market access.
“This year’s figures confirm increased confidence and participation across agriculture and agribusiness,” said Mr Gunundu.
He said the growth was particularly encouraging given the number of businesses making their debut at the annual event.
“Total exhibitors rose to 640, a 4,4 percent increase from 613 in 2025,” he said.
“New exhibitors stand at 86, representing 13,4 percent of all exhibitors.”
Mr Gunundu said the participation of new businesses demonstrated that the show continued to attract companies looking for opportunities to expand their markets and establish new commercial relationships.
“This significant number of new participants demonstrates growing confidence in the show as a premier platform for business, innovation and market access.
“The large number of first-time exhibitors is a clear vote of confidence in Zimbabwe Agricultural Show as the hub for agribusiness, networking, product launches and investment opportunities.”
The exhibition space booked has also increased to 89 500 square metres from 89 000 square metres last year.
“All major exhibition halls are now fully subscribed,” Mr Gunundu added.
International participation has also increased, with foreign exhibitors rising to 13 from 11 last year.
Exhibitors from South Africa, China, Zambia and other trading partners are expected to participate.
The livestock section is also expected to be a major attraction, with pure pedigree and fat-stock entries surging to 126 from 84 last year.
The 2026 edition will also make history with the first exhibition and judging of ostriches at the show.
“For the first time in show’s history, Ostrich will be exhibited and judged, adding a new dimension to the livestock section,” Mr Gunundu said.
Beyond exhibitions, the programme will include commercial stand judging, schools’ competitions and farmer training programmes.
The theme of this year’s ZAS places agriculture, technology and commerce at the centre of discussions, reflecting the growing role of innovation and business in transforming agricultural production.
The 116th edition of ZAS will run from Monday to August 29.
