Thousands expected at Mbonambi Agri Show

A crowd of more than 3 000 people is expected at the Mbonambi Show at Nzalabantu Stadium near Richards Bay this week (August 16-18) as the communities of Mbonambi, Sokhulu and Mhlana showcase their agricultural produce and crafts.
A wide variety of colourful displays will feature quality fruit and vegetables, creative beadwork, fashion-wear, baked delicacies, expertly woven crafts and artistic wooden carvings.
By the end of the show most of the exhibits will be sold, earning a healthy profit for the participants.
Now in its 19th year, this popular annual event is jointly sponsored by the Mbonambi municipality and Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), a company that continues to implement a rural development partnership in the area after three decades.
Many of the participants in the show have benefited from farming and domestic science training programmes designed to empower them to improve their quality of life.
The final day of the show – Friday, August 18 – is a day of celebration, marked by excitement, dancing, singing, jubilant parades, exhibitions, speeches and the presentation of prizes.
The guest speaker on this day will be Thuledu Khumalo, acting general manager for the Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs’ uThungulu region.

Recognition
The show recognises and rewards the achievements of local residents. Cash prizes and trophies are presented to the winning exhibitors and awards are made to the best performing local schools.
The judges are representatives of Mangosuthu Technikon, Owen Sithole College of Agriculture and the KZN Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs.
On Youth Day - Thursday, 17 August - the guest speaker will be Bongi Mkhize of Mangosuthu Technikon.
A number of organisations will set up displays throughout the three-day event to promote superior farming techniques, good health and sound environmental practices.
They include educational institutions, seed manufacturers, sugar and timber growers, fertiliser suppliers, Ngwelezana Hospital and various government departments and development agencies.
Jabu Kubheka, RBM’s general manager of public and community affairs, said that the show had become one of the most important events on the local calendar.
‘The show is truly a celebration of the successes of those who have worked hard throughout the year to develop and hone the skills which enable them to earn a living.’
Guests of honour will include the Mayor and town manager of the Mbonambi municipality as well as representatives of the three tribal authorities, RBM and the local community development councils.
The communities of Mbonambi, Sokhulu and Mhlana established a joint organising committee for the show, chaired by Deborah Nxumalo.
The facilitator of the event is Doctor Mtshali of the Mbonambi municipality.
A group of 40 senior agricultural students from Mangosuthu Technikon in Durban will act as stewards to gain valuable practical experience for their studies.
For more information contact Doctor Mtshali on 072 3592549.