By Zachary Gava
Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS), which runs the country’s biggest farming show, said on Thursday it had set an ambitious target of attracting 630 exhibitors for this year’s edition next month.
Part of ZAS’ optimism is based on strong early exhibitor bookings, which the agricultural body said signaled growing confidence in the country’s premier exhibition.
Addressing a press conference, ZAS chief executive officer, Rufaro Alfred Gunundu said this year’s show, running from 24 to 29 August under the theme “Powering Growth: Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge,” will showcase innovation, investment opportunities and business partnerships to drive Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation.
“Our target is 630 exhibitors across 89,000 square metres of exhibition space. To date, we’ve confirmed 350 exhibitors, comprising both local and international companies, with 6,000 square metres of space already booked. This strong uptake reflects growing confidence in the show as the definitive marketplace where agriculture, technology and commerce converge to power growth, create jobs and unlock investment,” he said.
The exhibition will feature strong competition in livestock, crops and agricultural products, with entry numbers already surpassing last year’s figures in several categories.
Gunundu revealed that beef cattle entries have increased to 112 from 66 last year, while goat entries have almost doubled to 78 from 40.
Sheep entries have risen from 30 to 45, pig entries from 26 to 34, rabbit entries from 84 to 99, and poultry entries have more than doubled from 105 to 269, reflecting growing participation by farmers and breeders.
In the crops section, 120 tobacco entries have been received, representing a 135 percent increase from last year, driven by expanded participation from Manicaland and Matabeleland South provinces and growing interest in both flue-cured and naturally cured Virginia tobacco.
“This reflects improved farmer confidence and the show’s role in promoting quality and standards in the tobacco value chain,” Gunundu said.
He added that the Home Industries section continues to expand, showcasing innovation in food processing, leather products, crafts and cosmetics while highlighting the increasing contribution of women and young entrepreneurs to economic growth.
“This section highlights the role of women and youth in driving inclusive growth and creating jobs at household and community level,” he said.
Beyond the exhibition, the agricultural showcase will feature several high-level business engagements, including a Livestock Conference, Green Indaba, Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting, the Annual National Agribusiness Conference, and an AI in Agriculture conference organized in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and Courier Services.
The annual ZAS Charity Golf Tournament will also raise funds for agricultural diploma scholarships for disadvantaged children.
Gunundu said the official opening ceremony is scheduled for 28 August, while visitors can also look forward to entertainment featuring live performances, fireworks and family activities throughout the week.
To improve the visitor experience, ZAS has introduced online registration, online ticket sales, additional entry gates and expanded parking facilities, while security has been enhanced through upgraded CCTV systems.
Children attending the show will once again be tagged to facilitate quick reunification should they become separated from their guardians.
Held annually in Harare, the agricultural show remains the country’s flagship agricultural exhibition, bringing together farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, investors and technology providers to showcase innovations, strengthen value chains and promote agricultural-led economic growth.
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