Gwanda – Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT) is participating in the 68th edition of the Matabeleland South Agricultural Show, taking place from 20–22 August 2026 under the theme “Unlocking Opportunities Through Collaboration.”
The annual agricultural show provides an important platform for businesses, government departments, civil society organizations, farmers and communities to connect, share ideas and explore opportunities for sustainable development.
For NFT, the event provides an opportunity to bring disability inclusion, empowerment and equal participation into conversations around community and economic development.
NFT’s participation also dovetails with the country’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS 2), which places emphasis on inclusive economic growth, human capital development, employment creation and ensuring that vulnerable groups benefit from national development programmes.
The organization is using the agricultural show to demonstrate that persons with disabilities should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries of development, but as active participants and contributors to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation.
By promoting access to skills, technology, livelihoods and economic opportunities, NFT is contributing to the broader NDS 2 goal of leaving no one behind while strengthening the productive participation of all citizens.
At its exhibition stand, NFT is showcasing its work in promoting the rights, inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate meaningfully in society and the economy.
Speaking on NFT’s participation, NFT Director Dr. Pick Nkomwa said the theme of this year’s Agricultural Show resonates strongly with the organization’s programming and partnership approach.
“This year’s theme resonates well with our programming, as we have been implementing activities in collaboration with government ministries, NASCHOH, FODPZ, World Vision, Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, Noble Hands Trust Zimbabwe, Mist Corporation Services, LOREWO and Maggie’s Unique Designs, among others.”
Dr. Nkomwa said meaningful collaboration is critical to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for persons with disabilities.
“Disability inclusion is everyone’s business. When stakeholders work together, we can unlock opportunities, strengthen participation and ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind,” he said.
Throughout the three-day event, NFT is engaging visitors, exhibitors and other stakeholders on key issues including disability inclusion, accessibility, assistive technology, skills development and economic empowerment.
The organization is also using the platform to raise awareness of the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in mainstream development initiatives and have equal opportunities to access services, information, education, skills and livelihoods.
NFT’s participation further provides an opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships while establishing new relationships with stakeholders who share the organization’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
The 68th Matabeleland South Agricultural Show comes at a time when there is growing recognition of the need to ensure that development opportunities are accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities.
NFT believes that collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society, development partners and communities is essential to building inclusive communities where everyone can participate and thrive.
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