Tanaka Chare
Over 500 communal farmers across Mberengwa gathered at Danga Growth Point for a vibrant three-day District Agricultural Show, proudly displaying their crops, livestock and community projects, showing resilience despite climate challenges.
Farmers from 37 wards and 10 zones participated in the event. The winners are going to represent the district at the Midlands Show in Gweru, which will commence from 14 to 17 August 2025.
Ward 29, Agritex Officer Matutu Munogwei said the event was not just about winning, but also about recognising innovation, handwork, and community growth.
“ Women are fully involved in showcasing their work; however, rising concerns over the season’s low rainfall need improvements in the irrigation infrastructure so that farmers could cop better with dry spells,” she added.
On the other hand, the Mberengwa District Development Coordinator, Vasias Hlavati expressed strong support for Agritex’s efforts.
“ We encouraged 1152 headmen and 2 chiefs across the district to back the initiative of making full use of every drop of rain, without letting traditional beliefs or fear of climate change hold communities back.”
“ Last year’s poor harvests were a result of limited knowledge on seed collection. However, projects like the Chamagudo Irrigation Scheme and Village Business Units have improved farmers’ awareness and boosted yields this year, leading to a higher participation rate compared to last year.”
“ With renewed hope and stronger collaboration, Mberengwa’s farmers remain determined to thrive,” he noted.
A farmer who was at the exhibit said, “It is a motivation to us as farmers. We would always want to do better to improve our standards. We want to be self-sustaining in terms of food and other income-generating projects, which are also on display here.”
“ We get new ideas through such initiatives and interactions. I am delighted in this edition of the show, l have managed to outclass some other exhibitors,” another added.
Midlands Provincial Director for Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Service (ARDAS), Busiso Olga Mavankeni, was impressed with the initiative and how farmers overcame the dry spell.
“ I want to commend the organisers for bringing together farmers, innovators and stakeholders to share knowledge, showcase their products and network. Events like these are crucial for promoting agricultural development in our district, as we had a bumper harvest this season compared to last season. I encourage all participants to take advantage of the exhibits and all government-supported programmes.”
