By Julius Idrissa Manganda
Preparations for the 116th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show are at an advanced stage, with organisers targeting 630 exhibitors as the country prepares for its biggest agricultural and business exhibition of the year.
The annual event, which runs from August 24 to 29, will be held under the theme “Converge: Powering Growth, Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge.”
Speaking during a media briefing in Harare, Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) Chief Executive Officer Mr Rufaro Alfred Gunundu said this year’s show is expected to be one of the biggest in the event’s history.
“We are shaping one of our most expansive editions yet. Our target is 630 exhibitors across 89,000 square metres of exhibition space. To date, we have confirmed 350 exhibitors, comprising both local and international companies, who have already booked 66,000 square metres of space,” said Mr Gunundu.
He said the strong response from exhibitors demonstrates growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and the importance of the annual exhibition as a platform for investment, innovation and business growth.
The show will feature increased participation across several competition categories, reflecting continued growth in Zimbabwe’s agricultural value chains.
Mr Gunundu said the tobacco section has recorded 120 entries, a 135 percent increase from 51 entries in 2025, with growers from Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland South and Matabeleland North expected to participate.
The cotton section has maintained 40 entries, with exhibitors set to showcase improved seed varieties, mechanisation technologies and value-addition initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s textile industry.
The agri-produce section has also attracted strong interest from farmers, cooperatives and agro-processors, who will exhibit grains, horticultural products, oilseeds and processed foods.
“Our focus this year is on food safety, packaging and standards that improve market access while contributing to national food security,” Mr Gunundu said.
He added that the Micro Enterprise and Home Industries section continues to expand, providing a platform for small and medium enterprises to showcase innovation in food processing, leather products, crafts and cosmetics while creating opportunities for women and young entrepreneurs.
Beyond agriculture, the show will host several business conferences aimed at bringing together policymakers, investors and industry leaders.
Among the key events will be the Livestock Conference, which will focus on building resilient livestock systems as Zimbabwe works towards achieving a US$15.8 billion agricultural economy by 2030.
Visitors can also look forward to a vibrant entertainment programme, with award-winning musician Jah Prayzah set to headline performances. Fireworks displays will be held on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, alongside other family entertainment activities.
The official opening ceremony of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show is scheduled for Friday, August 28 2026.
To improve visitors’ experience, ZAS has introduced online ticket sales and registration, additional entry gates and expanded parking facilities.
Mr Gunundu said security had also been strengthened through the installation and upgrading of CCTV surveillance systems across the showgrounds.
“Security remains our top priority. We have strengthened our security systems with the installation and upgrading of CCTV cameras to ensure the safety of all exhibitors and visitors,” he said.
He said the popular child tagging system would also return this year to help reunite children with their parents or guardians should they become separated during the event.
With preparations well underway, organisers are confident the 116th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show will once again provide a major platform for agricultural innovation, business networking, investment and economic growth while showcasing the country’s agricultural potential.
