By Sharon Chimenya
MASVINGO – The 2026 Masvingo Agricultural Show ended on a high note, with 120 exhibitors showcasing a diverse array of products
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Attendees were also treated to an exciting lineup of new entertainment acts, which added vibrancy to the annual event.
Running under the inspiring theme, “Facilitating Trade for Economic Growth,” the show commenced on Thursday, September 24, and concluded today, Sunday the 27th, leaving participants inspired and energised.
The event attracted a vibrant mix of participants, including innovative farmers, key government departments, parastatals, leading financial institutions, prominent industries, and dynamic non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The official opening on Saturday drew an impressive crowd, attracted by fresh entertainment programs curated by the Masvingo Agricultural Show Society. Highlights included thrilling paratrooper displays and captivating horse drills performed by the Zimbabwe National Army.
There were also traditional entertainment slots such as the ZNA mock battle displays, jumping castles, and strongman shows. The crowd was further entertained by Mudododo hitmaker Taruvinga Manjokota, affectionately known as Sugar Sugar, who performed songs such as “Juliana” and “Jee.”
Masvingo Agricultural Show Society Chairperson Fadzai Jirivengwa, speaking during the official opening, said this year’s show has seen growth from last year, with 120 exhibitors participating in this edition.
“This year’s show has attracted more exhibitors, with 120 participating compared to 110 last year. Every stand you visit represents a business, an institution, or a farmer; that confidence is not something we take for granted,” she said.
“We have more than 10 categories on display this year, ranging from commercial enterprises, small and medium enterprises, agriculture, telecommunications, non-governmental organisations, universities, colleges, and health and social services, among others. This breadth is deliberate; trade does not happen in one sector alone—there is networking across all sectors.”
One of the participants who specialises in baobab value addition said this year’s show unlocked many opportunities for them, as they received significant feedback from the local community.
“We came here last year, but we did not receive as much feedback as we did today. We are a company based in Harare, and we add value to baobab and produce juice and sweets. Many people today also encouraged us to open here in Masvingo. We hope to return to Masvingo next week,” she said.
Another exhibitor, Opulent Hardware, said the show provided them an opportunity to interact with consumers who were not aware of the wide range of bathroom ware they sell in Masvingo.
“This 2026 Agricultural Show has allowed us to meet many different customers. We were able to display our bathroom ware and noticed many people were struggling to find where to buy these items, even though we have stocked them in Masvingo for a long time. We have also connected with many companies in the construction industry, as well as other businesses interested in our products,” said Ellen Gozo of Opulent.
Young people also had the opportunity to participate in gun shooting activities at the ZNA stand and ride motorbikes at the Zimbabwe Republic Police and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services stands.
Face painting, jumping castles, swimming pools, and crocodile viewing were some of the activities that young people found most exciting during the recently concluded 2026 Masvingo Agricultural Show.
