Online Reporter
Nyasha Simbisai
Agriculture Correspondent
THE 2026 edition of the Agricultural Dealers and Manufacturers Association (ADMA) Exhibition has highlighted the critical role of mechanisation, value addition and rural industrialisation in driving Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation and attainment of Vision 2030.
This year’s ADMA Exhibition places emphasis on mechanisation, climate-smart agriculture, irrigation development, livestock productivity and agro-processing, reinforcing agriculture’s role in the country’s transformation agenda.
Speaking during a tour of the exhibition in Harare on Friday, Lands and Rural Development Minister Vangelis Peter Haritatos said the growth of the annual showcase reflected significant progress in modernising agriculture and unlocking rural economic potential.
The exhibition, which started on Thursday and ends today, has attracted 264 exhibitors occupying more than 50 000 square metres of exhibition space and is expected to draw over 17 000 visitors.
Minister Haritatos said mechanisation remained a key driver of productivity, efficiency and profitability in agriculture.
“Farming is a business. Mechanisation helps farmers improve production and productivity while enhancing the viability and sustainability of their operations,” he said.
He added that Government remained committed to ensuring farmers had access to modern technologies, irrigation systems and mechanised farming solutions to boost yields and food security.
He commended the ADMA Mechanisation Alliance for promoting agricultural development and supporting national objectives through innovation and investment.
Beyond machinery and equipment, Minister Haritatos said the exhibition showcased the growing importance of value addition and rural industrialisation in strengthening rural economies.
“We are seeing value addition coming to life. Whether it is stock feeds, livestock products or crop outputs, value addition increases profitability and strengthens rural economies,” he said.
He noted that rural industrialisation was creating opportunities for income generation, employment creation and economic growth in farming communities.
He said the exhibition reflected Government’s broader rural transformation agenda, which seeks to improve livelihoods and promote inclusive development.
“What we are seeing here is agriculture transformation in action. We are seeing mechanisation, value addition and rural industrialisation all coming together.”
He urged farmers to embrace innovation and modern production methods.
