Online Reporter
Precious Manomano and Patience Maturure
Herald Reporters
The 115th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show opened yesterday at the Harare Exhibition Park with an impressive turnout, setting a vibrant tone for the annual event.
While some exhibitors were still making final adjustments to their stands, the excitement among attendees was already evident.
Livestock — including cattle, sheep, and goats — were on display in their respective sections, while a wide variety of agricultural products and innovations dominated the exhibition halls.
Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) chief executive officer, Mr Rufaro Alfred Gunundu, said 570 exhibitors from different sectors had taken up more than 80 000 of the 86 500 square metres available.
This, he noted, was a significant increase from last year’s 420 exhibitors.
Mr Gunundu attributed the growth to strong publicity and media coverage.
“The high number of attendees can be directly linked to excellent information dissemination by journalists. Their insightful coverage raised awareness and met public expectations, resulting in a noticeable increase in attendance compared to previous years,” he said.
The Exhibition Park was abuzz with activities ranging from business conferences to entertainment events designed to foster networking among farmers, industry leaders, and government officials.
Yesterday’s programme also featured the Green Indaba at Andy Miller Hall, which added depth to discussions on sustainable agriculture.
Organisers ensured smooth entry into the grounds, with no long queues reported at the gates.
Among the key highlights lined up for the week are the National Agribusiness Conference and a Food Security Business Breakfast meeting.
Both events are expected to provide executives and industry leaders with a platform to discuss production challenges and explore practical solutions.
Exhibitors expressed optimism that the show would create better business opportunities as attendance builds toward Saturday’s closing ceremony.
International participation has also been notable, with exhibitors from Pakistan, Nigeria, Brazil, Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, India, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia.
This diversity is enriching the exhibition, fostering dialogue and collaboration across borders.
For many small-scale farmers and first-time participants, the event offers invaluable exposure.
Mrs Agnes Mukwature of Masvingo, who is selling indigenous chickens, said she was eager to gain new skills.
“We are looking forward to a fruitful show that will not only enhance my farming practices, but also help me produce more to sustain my family. This platform provides invaluable insights into best practices and innovative farming techniques,” she said.
Mrs Thandiwe Makina from Guruve described the show as a platform for empowerment.
“This event is more than just a showcase; it’s a platform for women to be economically empowered. We learn so much from other exhibitors, and the interactions here open doors for trade that can uplift our communities,” she said.
First-time exhibitor Mr Clemence Mpariwa from Chinhoyi, whose company specialises in borehole drilling rigs, said he was encouraged by the positive response on the opening day.
“Today is just the first day, and while the show is not yet at its peak, we are thrilled by the number of inquiries we’ve received. Our company is only a year old, but the impact has resonated well with our community. We believe this show will help us connect with those who need our services most,” he said.
Running under the theme “Building Bridges, Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Communities,” the 115th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show is expected to consolidate its role as a premier platform for knowledge-sharing, trade and investment in the country’s agricultural sector.
Online Reporter