By Tafara Pande
BINDURA — Agriculture’s central role in Mashonaland Central’s economy was on full display at the 2025 edition of the Mashonaland Central Agriculture Show, where farmers were celebrated for delivering one of the country’s most successful cropping seasons.
The province, which contributes 33 percent to its Gross Domestic Product through agriculture, recorded the nation’s highest average maize yield of 1.7 metric tonnes per hectare. This translated into a projected total production of 153,000 metric tonnes, surpassing expectations by 3 percent.
“This remarkable performance reflects the hard work and dedication of our farmers. It is a demonstration that with the right support, agriculture remains the backbone of our economy,” said Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo, during the official opening.
Show organisers pledged to build on the momentum of the 2024/25 season, which saw farmers overcoming a late start to produce impressive results.
“The show is a celebration of our collective effort, supported by government farming inputs and guided by the national vision,” said Show Society Secretary General, Mr. Josphat Mukwena.
Among the highlights was the recognition of smallholder farmer Gracious Muchengu, who scooped top honors with her tobacco and sugar bean yields.
“I am overjoyed by this recognition. Beyond the award, I have gained invaluable knowledge from the exhibitions,” she said.
Exhibitors from 68 companies up from last year’s 63 praised the event as a valuable platform for networking and market visibility.
“As Nyaradzo Funeral Assurance, we are grateful for winning an award and the opportunity to connect with the farming community,” noted exhibitor Josphat Jekera.
Held under the theme “Innovative Solutions for Development”, the show also featured a business conference and farmer training workshops, cementing its role as a hub for agricultural growth and innovation in Zimbabwe.
