Harare Agric show opens today

8am.
By late yesterday afternoon, most exhibitors were busy putting final touches to their stands.
ZAS general manager Mr Les Mallett was similarly too busy even to comment on the preparations while the public relations manager Mrs Sibonginkosi Muteyiwa was not in her office, with her mobile phone going unanswered.
On Wednesday, Mr Mallett said preparations for the big event were going on well and were already 98 percent complete.
This year’s theme is “Celebrating Agricultural Growth and Promoting Green Business.”
A total of 1 000 exhibitors are expected to showcase their wares at this year’s event. Last year, 750 exhibitors participated.
“We have 12 foreign exhibitors this year, two more than last year’s 10. They are from countries such as South Africa, Malawi, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Ghana and Iran while China and the Netherlands are participating for the first time,” said Mrs Muteyiwa on Wednesday.
There are 350 farmers also exhibiting this year.
They will showcase cattle, small livestock units such as goats, sheep and chicken while there would also be crop produce on display.
Last year there were only 266 farmers.
At least 130 000 people are expected to attend the show that will run from today to August 27.
Adults will pay US$5 every day while children will pay only US$1.
Tongai Moyo, Sulumani Chimbetu and superstar Oliver Mtukudzi will entertain the showgoers. To boost security, over 100 police officers will be deployed.
The official opening of the show will be on 26 August 2011 at the Glamis Arena.
President Mugabe who is the patron of the show society is yet to advise them on the guest of honour.