17 Oct 2022

 While recuperating from COVID-19 pandemic, the agricultural sector was dealt another blow due to the outbreak of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the North East District, stalling movement of cloven-hoofed animals out of and into the disease control zone of 6B.

The chairman of the National Agricultural Show Committee, Mr Thapelo Setlalekgosi said the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease resulted in the indefinite postponement of the National Agricultural Show, which was initially scheduled for August 29, until September 3.

He , however, said the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the farming community had decided to reinstate the show, which started yesterday and will end on October 23 at the agricultural show grounds in Sebele.

“We have received exhibits for various categories including cattle, goats, horticultural produce and many others under the agricultural sector. 

Yesterday and today will be judging, tomorrow will be ribbon dressing for the winners in the various categories, Thursday will be rest day and the official opening of the show, which will be followed by prize giving, will be done by President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi on Friday,” said Mr Setlalekgosi.

He said the show, which was normally held during the month of August was haulted by the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease.

He noted that sadly farmers from the Foot and Mouth Disease  infected region were not be part of the show, adding that the situation would reduce the number of exhibits at the show.

“We do understand that they were prepared and eager to be part of the show.

What I know is that even though hurt by the situation, they fully understand that the move was taken to safeguard the cattle industry, which was among the leading contributors to the country’s economy,” he said

He appealed to the farming community that COVID-19 remained the greatest challenge and was a predicament to any sector, therefore despite relaxing measures to combat the pandemic as a way of allowing various sectors of the economy to thrive, caution must be exercised at all costs.

He said health practitioners would be present during the course of the show.

As exhibitors continue to arrive, Mr Setlalekgosi commended farmers for the quality of their exhibits.

“I am highly impressed by the growth and quality presented by the small stock sector,” he said.

He said the small stock exhibits were expected to be high, adding that the decline was observed in the cattle sector as some of the reputable exhibitors were not at the show due to challenges beyond their control.

Mr Setlalekgosi appealed to the general public and investors to come in large numbers and support efforts made by farmers towards improving the agricultural sector.

“My appeal is that farmers must never give up despite the challenges that they encounter in the sector.

Our endeavour is to produce food for the country and reduce absolute dependence on farmers from other countries,” he said.

He said the stalls for horticultural produce would be testimony of the positives that the ban had on the local farmers.

Mr Setlalekgosi said the ban had triggered horticultural farmers to double their efforts and explore opportunities for growth offered by the value chain of the sector with the view of sustaining supply, diversifying and exploring the export market. 

He said through determination and resilience of farmers, the agricultural sector would continue to grow and cut on the importation bill, create wealth for local farmers as well as employment opportunities for fellow citizens.

He said the farmers were eager to diversify and grow the agricultural sector.

The National Agricultural Show will be held under the theme; Enabling Food Security Through Profitable Communal Farming Practices.” Mr Setlalekgosi said.  ENDS