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Marvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
VICE President Phelekezela Mphoko will officially open the 58th edition of the Matabeleland South Agricultural Show in Gwanda tomorrow. The agricultural show kicked off yesterday under the theme “Innovations that Promote Value Addition and Beneficiation” at its traditional venue, the Gwanda Agricultural Show grounds.
The event publicity officer Mvelo Zondo said the show society was excited to host VP Mphoko as the guest of honour.
“The ball has been set rolling and we’re optimistic this will be the best exhibition. The VP will tour the stands before delivering his speech. The programme starts at 10AM on Saturday,” he said.
Zondo said prizes would be given to exhibitors with the best stand as well as best breeds for livestock and crops.
He said cattle being exhibited at the show would be auctioned and taken for direct slaughter to avoid any possible spread of foot and mouth disease that has hit some parts of Matabeleland South.
As of yesterday livestock farmers had started exhibiting their cattle, goats, pigs, chickens, guinea fowls and rabbits.
All indoor stands had been taken up.
This year there is an increase in the number of first time exhibitors compared to previous years.
Dabane Trust, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Nicoz Diamond, Standard Development Fund, Self-Help Development Foundation, Southern Express Assy Lab, Telecel and Topic Funeral Services are some of the first time exhibitors while CMED, ZB Bank and POSB are returning exhibitors who have been absent in the past few years.
The show, however, started on a low note with exhibitors expressing optimism.
Some exhibitors were still putting final touches to their stands yesterday.
“Usually on the first day, the turnout is low but we’re hopeful that tomorrow (today) the complexion of the show will be different and more people will visit our stands,” said one of the exhibitors.
Online Reporter
Londile Moyo