Umzimvubu show returns as disease outbreak halts livestock displays

The Umzimvubu Local Municipality hosted its 13th Annual Agricultural Show this week, bringing farmers, small businesses and residents together in KwaBhaca for a two-day event focused on local food production and economic activity.

Held from 8 to 9 April at the KwaBhaca Auction Site, the show featured fresh produce, agro-processed goods and farming innovations from across the area. The event has been running since 2013 and continues to serve as a key platform for farmers to connect with buyers, partners and support institutions.

This year’s event drew a mix of emerging and established farmers, alongside government departments, financial institutions and development agencies. According to the municipality, the goal is to strengthen market access and improve long-term sustainability for local agriculture.

But the show also reflected current challenges facing the sector. No livestock was exhibited due to ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) concerns. Organisers implemented biosecurity measures, including sanitising vehicles and footwear, in line with national regulations.

For many farmers and small businesses, the event remains one of the few opportunities to reach customers directly. Local producer Nontuthuzelo Mbele said the platform helped her connect with buyers and learn from others in the sector.

Municipal officials say ongoing support programmes — including mentorship and skills training — are aimed at helping farmers improve production, manage their businesses and meet industry standards. These interventions are critical in rural areas where access to formal markets remains limited.

The show also placed a spotlight on agro-tourism and small enterprises, with visitors exploring locally made products ranging from fresh produce to crafts. This reflects a growing push to diversify rural economies beyond traditional farming.

For Eastern Cape communities, events like this are more than exhibitions. They create income opportunities, strengthen food security and support small-scale farmers who often operate with limited resources. The absence of livestock this year also highlights how animal disease outbreaks can directly affect rural livelihoods.

Local impact is clear: farmers in areas like Umzimvubu depend on platforms like this to survive, grow and compete in wider markets.

The municipality says it will continue to support the agricultural show as a long-term investment in rural development.

We will update this story with participation figures, economic impact data and farmer outcomes as more information becomes available.