tawandamusarurwa
Theseus Shambare
LIVESTOCK, which have traditionally been a huge drawcard at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS), return for this year’s edition, after a two-year hiatus.
Running under the theme “Sustained Growth”, the 113th edition is scheduled for August 28 to September 2, 2023.
The livestock showcase has been absent in the past two editions of the event due to increased cases of the foot and mouth disease (FMD) and the January disease (theileriosis).
The rise in the number of FMD and January disease cases coincided with stringent Covid-19 restrictions, which further constrained the movement of livestock.
With the cases of animal diseases having declined and Covid-19 restrictions lifted, livestock farmers are expected to steal the show at the country’s biggest agricultural showcase.
Said ZAS chief executive officer Dr Andrew Matibiri: “As you may be aware, the past two years were not as good as they could have been.
“Livestock farmers were the most affected, because of the restrictions that were imposed on both human and animal movements.
“However, this year, we are welcoming back all livestock farmers.”
He said health protocols will be followed, but they will not be as strict as in the past two years.
“We have learned a lesson from the previous experiences. Farmers need to communicate so that all the procedures are followed before the animals are transported from any part of Zimbabwe to our exhibition to ensure we do not move animals infected with a disease,” he said.
ZAS’ popular livestock competition, which includes both small and large animals like cattle, motivates farmers to improve their production methods.
Dr Matibiri said preparations for the 113th edition of the agricultural show are at an advanced stage.
“We are expecting over 500 exhibitors this year,” he said.
Dr Matibiri said the first exhibitors to secure space will qualify for an early bird discount.
He added: “Since agriculture is one of the main contributors to our economy, the theme is about complementing Government’s ‘Going for Growth’ mantra.
“We need long-term growth that is sustainable and balanced to enable the creation of an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship, while focusing on increasing productivity, creating job opportunities and reducing inequalities.”
The 113th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show is expected to highlight the potential of the country’s agriculture sector.
With the support of Government, the private sector and civil society, the sector can continue to grow, innovate and contribute to the sustainable development of the country and the region, said Dr Matibiri.
Traditionally, some of ZAS’ highlights have been the National Agribusiness Conference, the official opening, an awards ceremony for outstanding exhibitors and a display of fireworks.
Online Reporter