Women took centre stage at the Agricultural Show, hosted by Vhunjere Primary School, where 176 women participated in a celebration of rural innovation, farming, and entrepreneurship.
The event, attended by Honourable Pupurai Togarepi, showcased a wide range of produce, crafts, and small business initiatives led by women from across the surrounding community. The show provided a platform for women to display their talents, share experiences, and inspire one another through their work in agriculture and local enterprise.
“This is more than just a field day. It is a celebration of what women can do when given the opportunity,” said Hon. Togarepi.
He said women were at the heart of community development and praised their role in sustaining families and driving rural economies.
“When you empower a woman, you empower a community. What we witnessed here is living proof of that,” he said.
Participants showcased a variety of produce including vegetables, grains, processed foods, and hand-made items. Many also shared stories of how agriculture and self-help projects had helped them send their children to school, improve household incomes, and become financially independent.
“We are working the land, feeding our families, and building a future,” said Esther Makuvise, a local farmer from Nyamutsamba Village.
Another participant, Ruth Chikowore, who displayed an impressive range of dried vegetables and peanut butter, said the event gave her confidence to grow her small business further.
“I never imagined that something I started in my backyard could attract this much attention,” she said.
The event was described as a success not only for the number of participants, but also for the strong message of inclusion and resilience it sent across the district.
“No one should be left behind. Women have a right to the same opportunities and recognition as anyone else,” said Tendai Mbiriri, an agricultural officer from the local extension office.
Organisers said the aim of the event was to provide a platform for women to showcase their work and learn from one another through shared experience and peer mentorship.
“This is just the beginning. We want to grow this initiative and reach even more women next year,” said one of the show organisers.
Plans are underway to turn the agricultural show into an annual event, with more support from local institutions and training partners expected in future editions.
The event reflected growing momentum in rural communities where women continue to lead through hard work, innovation, and a shared vision for progress.
