Peparations for this year’s Kisumu National Show have been completed, with organisers expecting a record 200 exhibitors at the annual event.
The Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Kisumu Branch said the figure is the highest recorded in recent years.
Speaking at the ASK showground in Mamboleo, branch chairperson Rose Omondi said the increased participation was the result of extensive publicity and improved coordination among stakeholders, including the Kisumu County Government, whose patron is Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o.
The five-day event will open to the public on 22 July and run until 26 July. Omondi said visitors should expect exhibitions highlighting research, innovation, agriculture, trade and industry.
She said the Kisumu show had been rebranded as a national event and would attract exhibitors from government ministries, state corporations, county assemblies and neighbouring countries.
Learning institutions, including universities, colleges and schools from several counties, are also expected to take part.
Omondi said organisers were still engaging potential exhibitors from Bomet, Vihiga, Kakamega and other neighbouring counties.
This year’s theme is “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth.
She said the event would provide a platform to showcase new technologies and innovations, particularly in agriculture and industry.
“The show has always been an important platform for promoting local talent, innovation, agriculture and enterprise, while bringing communities together,” she said.
Omondi acknowledged that the event had struggled to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting organisers to adopt a new strategy aimed at revitalising the annual exhibition.
Kisumu County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo said adequate security arrangements had been put in place to ensure the event runs smoothly.
After touring several exhibition stands, he urged members of the public to attend in large numbers.”The show provides a valuable opportunity for young people to learn new skills and showcase their talents,” he said.
Several universities, colleges and other tertiary institutions are expected to exhibit during the event.
In addition to the exhibitions, visitors will be treated to arena attractions, including tug-of-war competitions, choir performances and displays by military and other uniformed service bands.
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