The National Association of Agricultural Show Societies of Zimbabwe (NAASSZ) has elected a new executive committee, with leaders pledging to reposition agricultural shows as engines for investment, innovation and provincial economic development.
The elections were held during the association’s annual general meeting hosted in Bulawayo on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), where delegates from provincial and district show societies gathered to review performance and map the way forward.
NAASSZ serves as the umbrella body representing agricultural show societies across Zimbabwe’s provinces and affiliated districts. The organisation says agricultural exhibitions must evolve beyond traditional displays and become platforms that attract investors, create business linkages and support national development goals.
Returning president Mr Godfrey Mavankeni retained his post and will be deputised by Mr Augustine Mupakurirwa. Mr Thabani Mkwananzi also retained the secretary-general position, with Mr Tonderayi Choga elected deputy secretary.
Mrs Pedisai Rusero was elected treasurer while Mrs Moline Matina will oversee marketing and publicity.Additional committee members include Mr Brian Vengai, Mr Josphat Mukwena and Alderman Against Chiteme.
Speaking after the AGM, Mr Mavankeni said agricultural shows should become strategic economic hubs capable of connecting businesses, farmers, investors and local authorities.“People and companies exhibit where they see value. As show societies, we need to improve our structures, strengthen partnerships and create environments that attract meaningful business opportunities.” he said, adding that provincial agricultural shows have the potential to contribute significantly to local economies by bringing together stakeholders from agriculture, commerce and industry under one platform.
Delegates at the meeting also encouraged show societies to modernise exhibition grounds, develop long-term infrastructure master plans and invest more in agricultural production initiatives, particularly crop and livestock development.
NAASSZ members were further urged to participate in regional and international exhibitions to gain exposure to emerging trends in agricultural showcasing and trade promotion.
The association believes strengthening provincial shows can help communities unlock investment opportunities while supporting Zimbabwe’s broader economic transformation agenda.
Meanwhile, Matabeleland North Show Society, which hosted this year’s AGM, is expected to stage its provincial agricultural show from August 5 to 8, 2026.
