BOTHAVILLE, 15 May 2025 — As Day 3 of the 57th NAMPO Harvest Day unfolds, Grain SA is proud to report that the event continues to exceed expectations. Held under the banner “Global Agriculture, Locally!”, this year’s NAMPO Expo has once again proven why it is the southern hemisphere’s premier agricultural showcase.
The first two days drew strong attendance, with 17,545 visitors on Tuesday alone, alongside a remarkable 85 aircraft and 16 helicopters landing at the NAMPO airfield—underscoring both the scale and the strategic importance of the event. Day 3 has seen no slowdown, as the exhibition grounds remain bustling with farmers, agribusiness leaders, researchers, policymakers, and international delegates.
“The energy on Day 3 is incredible. The enthusiasm of the agricultural community is undeniable,” said Dr Dirk Strydom, Managing Director of NAMPO (Pty) Ltd. “This event truly captures the heartbeat of our industry.”
Presidential Spotlight
NAMPO 2025 attracted national attention when President Cyril Ramaphosa visited on Tuesday, attending not only as a head of state but also as a farmer. Accompanied by his farm manager, he explored innovations on display and held strategic talks with Grain SA leadership.
Key topics discussed included:
- Harsh production challenges faced by South African farmers
- Rising farm crime and the need for improved rural safety
- Enhancing market access and job creation through agriculture
- Promoting crop genetics and technology for global competitiveness
- Supporting plant health, biosecurity, and sustainable yields
President Ramaphosa reiterated the government’s commitment to agriculture as a cornerstone of economic development. He assured Grain SA of focused interventions for rural safety and increased investment in agri-tech and infrastructure.
Additional high-level visits are anticipated, with Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, and Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson expected to attend in the coming days. These visits are likely to further key policy conversations and strengthen government-industry collaboration.
What’s Happening on Day 3 and Beyond?
NAMPO 2025 runs until Friday, 16 May, and continues to deliver on its promise of an inclusive, exciting agricultural experience for all:
- Around 900 exhibitors are showcasing everything from tractors to smart farming solutions, with international pavilions from the UK, USA, Argentina, Brazil, and Turkey.
- The livestock complex is buzzing with daily demonstrations of both large and small breeds.
- Three 4×4 tracks host two action-packed demos each day.
- The women’s programme offers diverse activities and shopping experiences in the KamersMakers tent, Hopefield, and SAMPI halls.
- For history lovers, the Engen Tractor Museum, Grain SA Museum, and Boereplanne competition highlight agricultural innovation past and present.
- A wide range of food stalls and sit-down restaurants cater to all tastes.
Visitors are encouraged to download the NAMPO app, which offers exhibitor maps, event bookmarks, and in-park navigation.
Conditions and Access
While recent rainfall has affected some gravel roads around NAMPO Park, all major tarred routes are in good condition, and the Free State’s crisp autumn weather is holding beautifully for the remainder of the expo.
Tickets remain available both at the gate and online via opentickets.co.za. For updates and highlights, visit nampo.co.za or follow Grain SA’s social media channels.
As the third day of NAMPO 2025 showcases the strength and resilience of agriculture, it’s clear that this is more than just an event — it’s a movement where the world meets agriculture, and agriculture meets the world.
