“This Show has given us an opportunity to present our products to a wider audience, connect with potential buyers, and learn from other farmers and stakeholders.”
The Umzimvubu Local Municipality has successfully hosted its 13th Annual Agricultural Show, marking over a decade of commitment to promoting and preserving local agricultural practices. The two-day event, held from 8 to 9 April 2026 at the KwaBhaca Auction Site, brought together emerging and established farmers, local businesses, and community members under the theme “Growing together, advancing agriculture through unity, trade and sustainability.”
According to the municipality, the show served as a vibrant platform showcasing fresh produce, agro-processed goods, and innovative farming practices, highlighting the diversity and resilience of the local farming community. Since its inception in 2013, the Agricultural Show has played a vital role in connecting farmers with markets and stakeholders. The municipality stated that the event continues to provide opportunities for farmers to engage directly with consumers, build partnerships, and access broader markets, contributing to local economic growth and food security.
The event also attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including government departments, private sector partners, development agencies, financial institutions, and research bodies, all working collectively to strengthen the agricultural sector. Highlighting ongoing support for farmers, Senior Manager for Local Economic Development, Mr Azola Makanda, said the municipality continues to invest in mentorship programmes and skills development initiatives. “These programmes focus on key areas such as business management, improving production efficiency, accessing markets, and meeting industry standards, ensuring that local farmers remain competitive and sustainable in a challenging economic environment,” he said.
Despite the absence of livestock exhibitions due to precautionary measures related to the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, the show maintained strong participation. The municipality confirmed that strict biosecurity measures were implemented, including the sanitisation of vehicles and footwear, in line with national regulations. The event further showcased agro-tourism and the role of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), with visitors exploring a variety of locally produced goods ranging from fresh farm produce to handcrafted items. One of the exhibitors, Ms Nontuthuzelo Mbele, expressed appreciation for the platform. “This Agricultural Show has given us an opportunity to present our products to a wider audience, connect with potential buyers, and learn from other farmers and stakeholders,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Mayor, Councillor Inga Nodali encouraged continued support for local farmers and entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of community participation in strengthening the municipality’s growing agro-tourism sector.
According to the municipality, the event once again demonstrated the power of collaboration, innovation, and local pride, cementing its role as a cornerstone in promoting sustainable agriculture and economic development in the Umzimvubu area. The show concluded with a judging process led by agricultural and craft experts, recognising excellence among participants.
