Bredasdorp, Western Cape – The Overberg region shone brightly as it hosted the 5th annual NAMPO Cape Expo from 11-14 September, 2024. The event attracted a record-breaking 45,894 visitors over four days, surpassing last year’s attendance of 34,635, and solidifying its reputation as the leading agricultural showcase in the Western Cape. Organised by Grain SA in collaboration with Bredasdorp Park NPC, the expo brought together industry professionals, farmers, and the community to celebrate and advance the future of agriculture.
Themed Agriculture: The Backbone of Economic Growth, this year’s expo underscored agriculture’s crucial role in the Overberg’s economy and beyond. Agriculture serves as the foundation for the region, and the event highlighted its importance in feeding millions of people, providing jobs, and driving local economic growth. ODM Executive Mayor, Ald Sakkie Franken, emphasized, “Agriculture significantly influences global trade and creates employment opportunities. It plays a vital role in our region’s development.”
The economic impact of NAMPO Cape on the Overberg region was substantial, with Chairman of Bredasdorp Park NPC, Henk Aggenbach, estimating that the event contributed between R15 million and R25 million to the local economy and created over 100 temporary jobs. The expo has become a key driver for rural development and economic empowerment in the area.
Expanding Exhibitions and Technological Innovations
One of the defining features of NAMPO Cape 2024 was its impressive array of exhibits. With over 600 stands and 542 exhibitors, the expo showcased the latest technology, machinery, and agricultural products. The expansion of the exhibition space with 38 additional stands addressed the increased demand from exhibitors, while the latest agricultural machinery and technology, including battery-powered vehicles, were showcased on a dedicated demonstration track.
Visitors were captivated by the Sheepdog Expo, organised in collaboration with the South African Sheepdog Association. This exhibition featured show classes, auctions, and incredible displays of livestock herding. Other notable highlights included the world-renowned South African Lipizzaners, whose graceful performances charmed crowds, and the vibrant Fynbos Festival, which celebrated the region’s rich biodiversity.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Farmers
Youth engagement took centre stage at NAMPO Cape 2024, with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture hosting a schools program that brought 500 learners from 30 schools to the expo. These students were given hands-on learning experiences, offering them practical insight into the agricultural sector. The Overberg Regional Youth Show, held on the final day, provided young participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in various agricultural disciplines, further inspiring future generations of farmers.
The event also emphasised the important role of women in agriculture, with a special women’s program featuring celebrity guests and entertainment, highlighting their contributions to the sector and encouraging greater participation.
Economic Empowerment and Sustainability
Dr. Dirk Strydom, MD of NAMPO (Pty) Ltd, highlighted the broader significance of the expo, stating, “Agriculture extends beyond just production. NAMPO Cape plays a key role in promoting rural development and social growth. By empowering producers with modern technology and knowledge, we can boost productivity and income. The integration of agriculture with renewable energy and biotechnology opens up new opportunities for innovation and diversification.”
NAMPO Cape 2024 successfully created a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and innovation, making it a cornerstone event for South Africa’s agricultural community. It continues to inspire current and future generations, demonstrating that agriculture is not just about feeding people, but also about driving economic growth and sustainability in the Overberg region and beyond.
The next edition of NAMPO Cape is scheduled for 10-13 September 2025 at Bredasdorp Park. For more information, visit www.nampocape.co.za or follow them on social media.
