Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
THE 116th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show has opened with a 50 percent surge in pure pedigree and fatstock entries, signalling renewed activity in livestock breeding and strengthening the event’s position as a major agricultural and business platform.
The livestock entries have risen to 126 from 84 last year, with organisers of the annual showcase also introducing an ostrich exhibition.
The Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) said the increase in livestock participation is a positive development for the sector as the show brings together farmers, agribusinesses, technology companies and potential investors.
ZAS chief executive officer Mr Rufaro Alfred Gunundu said the surge points to a strong recovery in livestock breeding.
“Pure pedigree and fatstock entries surged to 126, a 50 percent increase from 84 last year, signalling a strong recovery in livestock breeding,” he said.
The livestock section will also feature ostriches for the first time, adding a new dimension to the agricultural showcase.
“For the first time in Show history, ostriches will be exhibited and judged, adding a new dimension to the livestock section,” said Mr Gunundu.
The increase in livestock entries comes as overall participation at the Show has also grown, with exhibitors rising from 613 last year to 640 this year.
Of the 640 exhibitors, 86 are new participants, representing 13,4 percent of the total, as businesses seek opportunities to expand markets, launch products and establish commercial partnerships.
Mr Gunundu said the growth demonstrates increasing confidence in the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show as a platform for business and investment.
“This year’s figures confirm increased confidence and participation across agriculture and business,” he said.
He said the large number of new exhibitors is particularly significant as it shows that companies continue to view the Show as an avenue for market access and networking.
The increase has also been recorded in international participation, with foreign exhibitors rising by 18,2 percent to 13 from 11 last year.
Exhibitors from South Africa, China, Zambia and other trading partners are expected to participate, adding an international dimension to the event and creating opportunities for business linkages.
The show is being held under the theme, “Powering Growth: Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge”, placing innovation and commercial development at the centre of this year’s programme.
Apart from exhibitions and livestock judging, the programme includes commercial stand judging, school competitions and farmer training programmes.
The activities are expected to bring together participants across the agricultural value chain, from farmers and students to corporates and technology providers.
The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show runs from today to August 29 at the ZAS Business Hub in Harare.
