Sunday Mail Reporter

THE 110th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS) ended yesterday with organisers describing it as a success despite muted activities.

Most exhibitors reported low business activity owing to limited movements due to the coronavirus. This year’s four-day event, which ran under the theme “Synergies for Growth-Cooperate. Collaborate. Complement”, also included virtual meetings.

Traditionally, the annual show is held at the end of August, but this year it was moved back to the end of October because of the pandemic.

The maximum number of exhibitors was limited to 200 to facilitate social distancing.

Zimbabwe Agricultural Society chair Mr Ivan Craig said the show was a success as it was held during a difficult period.

“The show was a success in terms of the budget as we did not want to go beyond 200 companies and we managed to achieve this,” he said.

“We thank the Government for its support as well as all the companies that supported us. It was a difficult time but we managed to achieve all the targets that we had set for ourselves.”

Most exhibitors said they registered low business as potential clients could not be allowed into the venue.

Solomon Zawe of Solomombe Breeders said: “Yes, business was low this year. This was expected due to the Covid-19 and the scaled-down exhibition.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is hope that after the Covid-19 pandemic things will rebound. We will continue to support the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society.”

Gift Jambaya of Mr Tsuro, a rabbit-rearing project, said the low number of attendees meant he only got serious clients.

“Some are indeed saying business was down, but I can say it was good because I was dealing with serious customers only,” he said.

“It was strictly business, so all those who came to the stand were serious about doing business and I prefer it that way.”

The show was officially opened by President Mnangagwa on Friday. He was accompanied by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi in touring selected stands. This year’s show was held without the traditional entertainment from the uniformed forces, drum majorette displays and live musical performances.