The Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) is projecting one of the biggest editions of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show in its 131-year history, with organizers targeting 630 exhibitors occupying 89,000 square metres of exhibition space when the 116th edition runs from 24 to 29 August 2026 under the theme, “Powering Growth: Where Agriculture, Technology and Commerce Converge.
Addressing the media in Harare on Thursday, ZAS Chief Executive Officer Rufaro Gunundu said preparations for the country’s premier agricultural exhibition were progressing well, with 350 exhibitors already confirmed, representing both local and international companies that have booked 66,000 square metres of exhibition space.
“On behalf of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society, I am pleased to welcome you to this press briefing for the launch of the 116th Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, the country’s premier platform for showcasing agricultural innovation, agribusiness opportunities and commercial excellence,” said Gunundu.
He said this year’s show is expected to be one of the most expansive editions yet, reflecting growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector as agriculture, technology and commerce increasingly converge to drive economic growth, job creation and investment.
Gunundu said strong competition is expected across the livestock, crop and agri-produce sections, with notable growth in tobacco entries. Tobacco entries increased to 120 in 2026, representing a 135 percent increase from the previous year, driven by expanded participation from Manicaland and Matabeleland South under both the Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) and Naturally Cured Virginia (NCV) categories.
The cotton section has maintained 40 entries, showcasing improved varieties, mechanisation and value addition, while the agri-produce section has attracted increased participation from processors, reflecting greater emphasis on food safety, packaging and market access.
The Micro Enterprise and Home Industries section continues to expand, highlighting innovation in food processing, crafts, leather products and cosmetics, with a strong focus on women and youth entrepreneurship.
Livestock entries also demonstrate sustained interest across major categories, with entries received for beef cattle, dairy cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits and poultry, underscoring the continued vibrancy of Zimbabwe’s livestock industry.
Gunundu announced an extensive programme of business conferences and sector-specific engagements designed to promote dialogue between government, industry, researchers and investors.
The programme begins with the Livestock Conference on 5 August, focusing on building resilient livestock systems. This will be followed by the ZAS Charity Golf Tournament on 7 August, which aims to raise funds for the ZAS Royal Agriculture Diploma Scholarship Programme for disadvantaged students.
During show week, delegates will participate in the Green Indaba on 24 August, the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Conference on 25 August, the Annual National Agribusiness Conference (ANAC) and the AI in Agriculture Conference and Dinner, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, on 26 August.
Other key events include the *)Exhibitors’ Cocktail, an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Conference, the Research for Agriculture Conference, and the Excellence Technology Indaba, which will focus on technology, enterprise development and innovation.
Gunundu said the official opening ceremony has been scheduled for Friday, 28 August 2026, with comprehensive preparations underway to ensure the event maintains its high-profile status.
Beyond agriculture and business, the show will feature family entertainment at the Glamis Arena, including live performances by famous local musicians and fireworks displays on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
To improve visitor experience, ZAS has introduced online registration, online ticket sales, agent ticket sales, additional entry gates and expanded secure parking facilities.
Security has also been strengthened through the installation and upgrading of closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems across the Business Hub, while a child-tagging programme will once again be implemented to facilitate the quick reunification of children separated from their guardians during the show.
Gunundu encouraged exhibitors, stakeholders and the public to participate in what he described as Zimbabwe’s flagship agricultural showcase, saying the exhibition remains a vital platform for promoting agricultural innovation, strengthening value chains and accelerating national economic development. Zimbabwe Agricultural Society — ZAS”
