Committee dreams big for National Agric Show
Kabelo Boranabi | Thursday July 30, 2015 14:10
Speaking during a media tour yesterday, committee chairperson, Gertrude Kelebemang said plans were underway to ensure the show transformed from an agricultural event into a business hub.
The National Agricultural Show has moved from its traditional plot at the Fairgrounds to a new space in Sebele.
“We invite anyone who would want to invest in the area to come on board,” said Kelebemang.
“This is one way of raising funds for the committee, whether one builds a lodge, hotel or anything.
“We are not restricting this area only to agricultural activities, but to anyone who will help develop the area as has happened in other countries such as Brazil and Argentina.”
Kelebemang said the committee will rent out a newly built livestock judging ring, which is capable of accommodating about 700 people, for various events.
“This ring can host various events ranging from sports, entertainment and so on. Since the national show takes place once a year, we had to find a way in to utilise the place while at the same time generate income,” she said.
Ministry of Agriculture Public Relations Officer, Geoffrey Pheko, said existing infrastructure at the plot only occupies 20 percent of the land, with the balance undeveloped.
“I would like to plead with the public and potential investors to approach us and utilise this area,” he said.
Meanwhile, preparations are speeding ahead of the show, with organisers hoping to conclude their plans by Friday. Pheko said this year’s show is expected to attract a lot of farmers, especially youths, due to existing government programmes targeting this age group.
The show will start on August 3 and will feature farmers from across the country.
Participants are farmers who attained first to third positions in their respective District Agricultural Shows. The show will feature between 178 and 318 cattle kraals as well as between 48 and 68 goat kraals.