“Sustainable agricultural shows are crucial for fostering agricultural awareness and driving economic growth in rural communities.” This is the view of Breyton Milford, general manager of Agri-Expo, who spoke at the 2024 Agri-Expo Member Show Congress held at Houw Hoek, Grabouw this week.
The annual congress, a long-standing tradition, focuses on training representatives from agricultural shows. This year, it brought together 80 delegates from the Western and Northern Cape.
“Our programme this year concentrated on how agricultural shows can adapt to a changing environment, remain relevant in challenging times, and ensure their sustainable survival,” Milford added.
An honourary award was presented to Ian Koch in recognition of his lifelong contribution to agricultural shows in South Africa. Koch is synonymous with the Swartland Show in Moorreesburg, having been involved for around 50 years. He also contributed significantly to the Cape Show and served on the Agri-Expo Council for many years.
Agri-Expo honoured several shows for their excellence. The Swartland Show was awarded for innovation, the Riversdal Show for youth development, the Clanwilliam Show for being a standout new entrant, the Swellendam Show for the quality of its presentation, and the Williston Show for its community involvement.
The congress featured several notable speakers. Louis Wessels, Agri Western Cape’s legal representative, discussed the importance of constitutional obligations and protecting the assets of agricultural shows.
Noluvuyo Magadla, director of animal health for the Western Cape department of agriculture, provided a detailed overview of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak.
Andries Wiese of Hollard emphasised the value of partnerships between shows and sponsors. Corné Botha from George Show offered guidance on the optimal use of show grounds, while Corné Nel from BKB, a sponsor of the event, also addressed the delegates.
For more information about Agri-Expo’s member shows, visit www.agriexpo.co.za.
READ NEXT: Agri exports slightly up, trade surplus dramatically down
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
