Online Reporter
Innocent Mujeri
AS the golden rays of the August sun prepare to illuminate the exhibition grounds in Harare, the nation stands ready to celebrate a remarkable milestone – the 130th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society and the 115th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show.
From August 25 to 30, 2025, under the visionary theme; “Building Bridges: Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Community”, this iconic event will once again bring together the very best of Zimbabwe’s agricultural prowess, showcasing not just crops and livestock, but the indomitable spirit of a nation that has always drawn its strength from the land.
The story of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show is, in many ways, the story of Zimbabwe itself. Born in 1895 during the colonial era, the show began as a modest gathering of white farmers displaying their produce.
Over 13 decades, it has evolved into a grand national institution, mirroring the country’s journey through different epochs – from colonial rule to independence, through economic challenges to the present era of agricultural revitalisation.
Today, it stands as a proud testament to Zimbabwe’s enduring connection to the land and its ability to adapt and grow through changing times.
This year’s theme speaks directly to the Government’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Under the Second Republic’s leadership, Zimbabwe has made major strides towards creating synergies between agriculture, industry and local communities.
The show provides the perfect platform to demonstrate how these connections are being strengthened through policy and practice.
Visitors will witness first-hand how smallholder farmers are being integrated into commercial value chains, how agricultural output is feeding into industrial processing, and how rural communities are benefiting from these linkages.
Government’s innovative farming programmes have been instrumental in driving this transformation. The Pfumvudza/Intwasa conservation agriculture programme has revolutionised smallholder farming, enabling families to achieve food security even in the face of climate variability.
The Presidential Inputs Scheme has democratised access to quality seeds and fertilisers, while the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS) has brought mechanisation within reach of ordinary farmers. These initiatives will be prominently featured at the show, allowing farmers from across the country to learn about and benefit from these transformative programmes.
One cannot overstate the show’s importance as a marketplace of innovation. This year’s exhibition will showcase cutting-edge agricultural technologies that are changing the face of farming in Zimbabwe.
From solar-powered irrigation systems to mobile applications that connect farmers directly with markets, from climate-smart crop varieties to advanced livestock management techniques – the show will be a living demonstration of how Zimbabwe is embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution in agriculture.
These innovations are particularly crucial as the nation works towards achieving Vision 2030 of an upper-middle-income economy.
The livestock section always proves to be one of the most popular attractions and this year promises to be particularly special.
Zimbabwe’s beef cattle have long been renowned for their quality, and through the government’s livestock development programmes, smallholder farmers are increasingly participating in this lucrative sector.
The poultry industry, which has seen remarkable growth under the import substitution strategy, will showcase how Zimbabwe has transformed from a net importer to a self-sufficient producer of chicken products.
The dairy sector’s progress will also be on display, highlighting how domestic milk production has grown to meet national demand.
At the heart of this year’s show is the celebration of the Zimbabwean farmer.
From the large-scale commercial producer to the smallholder tending a hectare under Pfumvudza, from the young agripreneur launching a horticulture export business to the rural woman running a thriving poultry project – their stories of resilience and innovation will be the true highlight of the event.
The Government’s recognition of farmers as the backbone of the economy finds its fullest expression at the Agricultural Show, where their dedication and hard work are honoured and celebrated.
The show’s significance extends beyond agriculture alone. It serves as a powerful engine for economic activity, creating opportunities for countless businesses and service providers.
Hotels fill to capacity, transport services see increased demand, and local artisans find new markets for their products.
This multiplier effect demonstrates how agriculture, when properly supported and developed, can drive broader economic growth – a principle that underpins the government’s agricultural policies.
Education and knowledge-sharing have always been central to the show’s mission. This year’s event will feature an extensive programme of workshops, seminars, and demonstrations covering everything from climate-smart farming techniques to agricultural financing options.
Young people will have special opportunities to learn about careers in agriculture, helping to address the critical need for youth involvement in the sector.
The show’s organisers have worked closely with agricultural colleges and research institutions to ensure that the latest, most relevant knowledge is accessible to all attendees.
As Zimbabwe continues to implement its Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy, the Agricultural Show provides an ideal opportunity to assess progress and chart the way forward.
The strategy’s four pillars – increasing production and productivity, improving market access and trade, strengthening resilience to shocks and improving consumption and nutrition – will all be reflected in the exhibits and discussions.
Visitors will be able to see how these policy frameworks are translating into tangible results on the ground.
The international dimension of the show continues to grow in importance. Regional and international exhibitors will showcase their products and technologies, while trade delegations will explore opportunities for collaboration.
This reflects Zimbabwe’s commitment to regional integration and its growing role as an agricultural leader in Southern Africa. The show provides a platform to strengthen these international connections while promoting Zimbabwe’s agricultural exports.
As we celebrate 130 years of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society, we are reminded that agriculture is more than just an economic sector – it is the foundation of our national identity, the source of our food security, and the key to our future prosperity.
The 115th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show comes at a pivotal moment, as Zimbabwe continues its agricultural renaissance. Under the visionary leadership of the Second Republic, with policies that support farmers and promote innovation, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is poised for even greater achievements.
When the gates open on August 25, they will welcome not just exhibitors and visitors but the promise of Zimbabwe’s agricultural future. The show will stand as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when government, farmers, businesses, and communities work together towards common goals.
As we look ahead to the next 130 years, the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show will undoubtedly continue to evolve, but its fundamental mission will remain the same – to celebrate Zimbabwe’s agricultural excellence and to foster the connections that drive our nation forward.
In this anniversary year, that mission takes on special significance, reminding us all of agriculture’s central role in Zimbabwe’s past, present, and future.
