Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
THE Zimbabwe Agricultural Show is set to go global this year, with a notable increase in international participation as several embassies express interest in exhibiting.
Running from August 25 to 30 in Harare, the 115th edition of the show will also celebrate 130 years of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS), the organisers behind one of the country’s largest annual business and agricultural events.
ZAS has set a goal of attracting 580 exhibitors and so far, 304 have confirmed their participation.
ZAS Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rufaro Alfred Gunundu, said over 63 000 square metres of exhibition space has been booked out of the targeted 89 000 square metres.
“We have received strong interest from various embassies willing to exhibit and showcase their countries’ agricultural produce. It seems this edition is going to be big and unique,” he said.
“This signals growing global confidence in Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector and presents a platform for cross-border collaboration.”
This year’s show is themed “Building Bridges, Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Communities,” in line with efforts to enhance integration across sectors and foster sustainability.
Mr Gunundu said the event would serve as more than a trade fair.
“It is a platform to reflect on our progress, tackle emerging challenges, and create space for innovation within the agricultural economy,” he added.
Among the top highlights will be the Annual National Agribusiness Conference, ESG Conference, Research and Technology Indaba and the Zimbabwe Agricultural Media Awards.
The prestigious ZAS Show Section will feature 300 provincial champions chosen from nationwide competitions, judged by a regional panel.
On the livestock front, entries include 120 cattle, 78 goats, 68 sheep, 26 pigs, 84 rabbits and 105 poultry, all certified for foot-and-mouth safety.
In the crop section, Zimbabwe’s tobacco success remains on display, with over 340 million kg harvested last season, generating more than US$1,13 billion in revenue.
Cotton judging has been completed, showcasing its role in rural economies.
Visitors will benefit from improved infrastructure, including secure parking, child ID tagging, and expanded access points.
The Glamis Arena will offer entertainment ranging from live music to fireworks, with the official opening set for August 29.
Online Reporter