Zebaldt Ngaruka
The 20th edition of the much-anticipated Aminuis Agricultural and Industrial Show will get underway on Thursday at the Aminuis Showgrounds, with communal and commercial farmers from the constituency and surrounding areas all expected to showcase their top breeds.
Metarere Ngeenguno, who is one of the organisers, said the event aims to highlight exemplary farming skills, cutting-edge farming equipment and high-quality livestock, crops and agricultural products.
“This year’s event will feature exhibitions from the nation’s leading cattle, goats and sheep breeders, amongst others. The show also serves as a crucial platform for top government officials, local urban governance representatives such as councillors, and State veterinarians to present and share the latest updates and changes in the agricultural sector,” he said.
He added the event will provide valuable opportunities for small and medium businesses such as kapana traders, traditional product vendors and various local enterprises to showcase their offerings and talents.
“These contributions are essential components of the event’s purpose, which also strives to enrich the experience for all attendees,” he said.
The ever-growing agricultural expo equally offers an opportunity for local producers to network with their counterparts from across the country. The show will end on Saturday.
“The farming community can gain valuable insights by exchanging knowledge on livestock management, farming techniques and equipment. This exchange of ideas helps farmers to learn what works and what does not work, and the reasons behind these outcomes,” shared Ngeenguno.
Meanwhile, renowned Aminuis-based farmers such as Nicklaas Mbingeneeko, Damara sheep veteran breeder Isando Kavari, Person Hoveka of PH Farming from Epukiro constituency and others will all be in action, showcasing their various breeds.
“We brought our animals early to acclimatise to the weather, and remove stress. I know that it will be a tough competition in Aminuis, but I will come back with an award to Epukiro. I fed my animals well, and they are ready to showcase their quality,” said Hoveka.
In terms of rewards, the livestock producers will be awarded in the following categories: junior, reserve junior, senior, reserve senior, breed, reserve breed, inter-breed, reserve inter-breed, and the show champions.
The organiser, however, said the industry faces numerous challenges that hinder farmers’ ability to fully realise their full potential.
The farmers in the region have been affected particularly by drought and Lumpy skin disease, which remain the primary obstacles this year.
-zngaruka@yahoo.com