Over 300 Exhibitors Confirmed for 2025 Zimbabwe Agricultural Show

More than 300 exhibitors have already confirmed their participation in the upcoming 115th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, scheduled to take place from August 21 to 29 under the theme “Building Bridges: Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Community.” The event, organised by the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS), is set to be one of the biggest agricultural gatherings in the country’s calendar.

Speaking at a media briefing in Harare, ZAS Chief Executive Officer Rufaro Gunundu revealed that 304 exhibitors had confirmed their participation, with expectations that the number could rise to approximately 580. She also noted that exhibition space uptake had reached 62,710.64 square metres out of a projected 89,000sqm, reflecting strong interest from both new and returning participants.

This year’s edition comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s 2024/25 agricultural season has benefitted from better-than-average rains, raising hopes for improved yields and renewed optimism within the sector.

ZAS is also celebrating 130 years of agricultural excellence, innovation, and resilience. Gunundu described the show as more than just an exhibition, calling it a vital national event that unites farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and communities to celebrate and grow Zimbabwe’s agricultural achievements.

“The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show remains a cornerstone event on our national calendar, a proud tradition that brings together farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and communities to showcase the remarkable achievements of our agricultural sector,” she said. “It is more than just an exhibition. This event serves as a dynamic platform to reflect on the progress we have made, engage in meaningful dialogue around the challenges ahead, and explore new opportunities to drive growth and sustainability in our agricultural economy.”

A new feature this year is the expanded “Business-to-Business” engagement section, which will provide a space for senior executives, industry experts, and government stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore innovative solutions to boost the agricultural economy.

“These strategic platforms are designed to bring together senior executives, industry experts, and government stakeholders to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and explore innovations that can drive the growth of agricultural enterprises,” Gunundu said.

The show also promises a robust livestock section, with experts from across Zimbabwe and the region set to evaluate a wide range of animals. Participants are required to present valid foot and mouth disease certificates for all livestock entries. Current figures show strong participation: 120 entries for beef and dairy cattle, 78 goats, 68 sheep, 26 pigs, 84 rabbits, and 105 poultry entries.

“With such a diverse and competitive field, this year’s livestock competitions promise to be both intense and exciting, showcasing the very best in animal husbandry and breeding,” Gunundu added.

To improve visitor experience, ZAS has installed additional entry gates and expanded secure parking facilities. Last year, the show drew more than 250,000 visitors and featured around 560 exhibitors. This year’s numbers are expected to surpass those figures, further cementing the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show’s status as a premier event for the country’s agricultural and business communities.