By Violet Mashonga
Mashonaland West Province emerged among the top performers at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS) 2025, with several farmers, schools and districts walking away with prizes across different categories.
The event, held under the theme “Building Bridges: Connecting Agriculture, Industry, and Community,” showcased agricultural products, innovation, and value addition initiatives from across the country.
Chegutu farmer Plaxedes Murefu was the province’s standout performer, taking first runner-up positions in three categories – flowers and ornamental, value addition, and legumes. Officials described the achievement as a landmark for the province.
“This is a remarkable achievement, and we are thrilled to see our farmers excel at the national level,” said Mashonaland West Provincial Deputy Director of Agritex, Evelyn Ndoro.
Other notable winners included Lydia Mushaninga of Mhondoro Ngezi, who was runner-up in the cabbage and sweet potato categories, while Senzeni Munamike of Kariba district participated at ZAS for the first time, marking a milestone for the district’s agricultural representation.
Cotton and tobacco farmers from Sanyati and Zvimba districts also received consolation prizes. In the schools’ competitions, Alaska Primary came second runner-up, followed by Sir John Kennedy Primary in third place and Alabama Primary in fourth. In the secondary schools’ category, Jameson High School claimed the top spot, with Chinhoyi High taking second place.
In livestock, Catherine Murwira was runner-up in rabbitry and road runner categories, while Jeranando of Zvimba came first in guinea fowl. Beaty Chidyamari of Mubaira won a sheller, and Elizabeth Matemera, an area extension officer, walked away with a table prize.
Organisers said the province’s performance underlined the role of farmers, schools, and extension officers in driving agricultural growth.
The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show remains the country’s premier agricultural exhibition, promoting innovation and collaboration between farmers, industry, and communities.
