Drought disrupts popular agricultural exhibition

The current drought situation has resulted in fewer livestock to be exhibited at this year’s Windhoek   Agricultural and Industrial Show taking place from 27 September to 5 October.
According to vice-president of the Windhoek Show Society, Harald Schmidt, at least 750 livestock consisting of different breeds will be showcased this year. “Only about 50% of the total livestock we usually get will be showcased this year because of the drought,” said Schmidt. He added that the agricultural arena will have a grass dedicated area for livestock, horse stables and a championship of bull breed.
The agricultural arena is one the biggest attractions at the Windhoek Show. Schmidt is however confident that the decreased number of livestock will not deter visitors to come and see what the arena has in store.’’We are expecting an increased number of visitors this year, especially delegates attending the 11th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP11).’’ A similar situation happened at the recently ended Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF) where only a few livestock were up for exhibition.
Schmidt however said both events cannot be compared as they have different market opportunities.
“The Windhoek show happens in a growth centre whilst the Ongwediva trade fair is in a developing area. Our market opportunities are completely different and we all have different challenges and benefits, both are essential for economic growth,” said Schmidt.
He said one of the highlights for this year’s Windhoek Show is the Boer Mark, a micro business initiative that will be held on the 28 September and 5 October.