Story Tafara Chikumira, Midlands Bureau
PREPARATIONS for the Midlands Agricultural Show are now in motion after the organisers confirmed that the exhibition will be held next month.
At least 200 exhibitors are expected to be part of the trade showpiece.
Running under the theme: “Collaborative, Integrative Solutions for Economic Development,” the exhibition will be held from the 20th to the 23rd of next month.
“We believe this year’s edition of the business exhibition will give businesses enough platform to collaborate and come up with solutions that will help contribute significantly towards economic development as we gear to attain Vision 2030,” said Midlands Show Society Chairperson, Mr Augustine Mupakurirwa.
“This year’s exhibition is coming against a backdrop of a bumper harvest where we witnessed a surplus in wheat and maize requirements which has given impetus to farmers and businesses as the economy is anchored on agriculture and mining. We have also seen an increase in export receipts in mining and as such we are ready for the business showcase. The first day is specifically set aside for business as we expect the sector to interact in a free environment,” he said.
Organisers have also lined up a musical show which will be headlined by Zim-dancehall sensation, Freeman.
“From our previous experiences, we have realised that the young generation usually fills up the entertainment space during the exhibition. We could have settled for any mature artist to headline the act but our selection was informed by the needs analysis we carried out,” said Midlands Show Society Marketing Officer, Mr Lloyd Mudonhi.
“What is of interest is that we have also roped in a lot of local upcoming artists who will be getting a chance to share the stage with renowned artists so that they get the necessary exposure at the exhibition,” he said.
The Midlands agricultural show comes at a time the province has attracted new investments including the billion-dollar Dinson Iron and Steel plant expected to be commissioned this year.