Online Reporter
Midlands Bureau
This year marks a significant milestone for the Midlands Agricultural Show as it celebrates its centenary, having first been held in 1925 when it was initially dominated by white farmers.
Now, 100 years later, the show is set to take place from August 14 to 17 at the Gweru Showgrounds, with Midlands Show Society chairperson, Mr Augustine Mupakurirwa, announcing a familiar line-up of events for the celebration.
During a media briefing, Mr Mupakurirwa stated that the focus will be on stakeholder engagement and showcasing innovation in line with climate-smart and sustainable development trends.
“A century is a significant milestone, demonstrating the deep commitment of our community, exhibitors, and executives who volunteer their time to ensure the show’s success,” he said.
“We want our stakeholders to meet potential clients, launch products, and create business opportunities while sharing innovation.”
The Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka, he said, will be the guest of honour for the four-day event, themed “Climate Change Resilience: Smart and Sustainable Futures.”
Mr Mupakurirwa noted that the show will provide a business platform for stakeholders, service providers, and exhibitors to meet, network, and showcase products and innovations, including live demonstrations of new technologies.
The event will feature the usual adjudication of stands, a business conference, exhibitors’ reception, and opening ceremony.
“To date, 112 exhibitors have confirmed and paid to participate, including 15 new exhibitors. The society is targeting 170 exhibitors, as numbers have decreased in recent years,” he said.
Mr Lloyd Mudonhi, the entertainment coordinator, announced that artists Freeman and Master H will perform as part of the centenary celebrations.
The event will also include popular attractions such as burnouts, helicopter displays, uniformed forces displays, football, and the Miss Midlands Show.
