The ManicaPost
Osbert Mashonganyika Post Correspondent
ABOUT 17 000 people from all walks of life attended the 2019 edition of the Manicaland Agricultural Show (MAS), translating to more than 55 percent increase compared to last years’ 10 905.
The high turnout was largely attributed to an increase in exhibitors and the introduction of new entertainment activities.
10 new exhibitors also showcased their products at the annual provincial business expo.
MAS president Mr Patient Mbarara said this year’s huge turnout was beyond expectations given the current harsh economic situation in the country.
“The preparations were affected by economic environment which was characterised by unstable prices of goods and services. This made planning very difficult.
“As a result, we had not envisaged such huge numbers in attendance and we were really surprised by the sharp increase. We actually noticed that more people came from across the country while our residents in Manicaland also turned out in their huge numbers,” he said.
Mr Mbarara explained the vision of the provincial expo and challenged the corporate world to partner them.
“Our drive is to transform the showground’s into an exhibition park status matching or exceeding the standards produced at Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) and Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF). This vision can only be a reality through extensive infrastructure development. We are therefore calling upon the corporate in Manicaland and beyond to keep partnering us,” he said.
He added that this year’s event surpassed the exhibitors’ mark, which was not a mean achievement, given the biting economic environment in the country.
Mr Mbarara said the livestock section performance which was largely compromised by the 2018/19 drought.
“The show was largely a success, with the exception of the livestock sector, which was seriously affected by the drought,” he said.
He also challenged stakeholders to embrace technology and enhance productivity.
“A commitment to change and explore ways of enhancing productivity is therefore vital. Platforms like these give us the opportunity to network and exchange knowledge. We need to change and explore ways to enhance productivity,” said Mr Mbarara.
