Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
THE 68th edition of the Matabeleland South Agriculture Show in Gwanda is being officially opened today by Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Albert Nguluvhe.
The three-day event, which began on Thursday and ends today, is being held under the theme “Unlocking New Opportunities through Collaboration.”
The show brings together crop and livestock farmers, Government departments, parastatals, seed companies, non-governmental organisations, uniformed forces, funeral parlours and players from various sectors.
It provides farmers with a platform to exhibit their produce while allowing Government departments and private organisations to showcase their products and services.
The organisers said the theme was aimed at promoting collaboration and building partnerships that can unlock new business opportunities for farmers and other players in the agricultural value chain.
The exhibition also provides farmers with opportunities to connect with modern agricultural technologies, financial institutions, mining companies, manufacturers and supply-chain networks.
Agricultural shows offer farmers opportunities to secure contracts, access financing and learn about climate-resilient farming methods by bringing together stakeholders from different sectors.
Ahead of the provincial exhibition, Matabeleland South held ward, zone, cluster and district agricultural expos, shows and seed fairs as part of efforts to prepare farmers for the provincial event.
These grassroots-level exhibitions have increasingly become a conduit for identifying and showcasing agricultural innovations and products at provincial level.
Government has been decentralising agricultural exhibitions to the grassroots as part of efforts to encourage farmers to adopt innovation, technology and value addition at community level.
Through agricultural shows, farmers can market their products, build business networks, learn about new technologies, compete with other producers, increase visibility, explore value-addition opportunities and gain exposure to potential markets.
The agricultural sector remains one of the key drivers towards the attainment of Vision 2030.
Its growth is expected to empower communities, create employment and expand economic opportunities while strengthening food security and building a resilient agricultural sector in Matabeleland South.
