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winners.
The farmers, who said the prizes being offered were discouraging, also complained about the poor quality of food they are being served by the show organisers.
They, however, said the accommodation being offered is good.
There are 350 farmers exhibiting at the show and judgement of agricultural produce was done on the first day while the produce was still fresh.
The farmers are still to know what they would receive as prizes but last year overall winners walked away with US$50 while those who came second pocketed US$30, a figure farmers say was not commensurate with the expenses they incurred to participate at the show.
“We need to be awarded according to our input. We are calling on the organisers to consider all this so that we are motivated and value the show,” said Mrs Rosemary Mutengwa of Shamva.
Another farmer, who preferred anonymity added: “It is disheartening that at our provincial levels we are given prizes like ploughs and we come here and receive little amounts.
“Being a farmer I think if monetary prizes are not possible, it is better to be awarded with farm implements.
“With big prizes many people would put an extra effort in their work.”
Mr Arnold Matikasi of Mutoko said they were being served poor quality food.
“We were given good food on our first two days but the food is deteriorating everyday.
“We are now being given either beans or cabbage, badly cooked. As for the accommodation we are covered.
“Though we sleep in groups of 17 or so, the rooms are big and we have mattresses in the rooms,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu