By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
NAMPO Harvest Day opens at NAMPO Park in Bothaville today – Tuesday, 12 May–bringing together farmers, emerging producers, agribusinesses, vehicle brands and technology companies for one of Southern Africa’s biggest agricultural gatherings.
This year’s theme, Resilience through Innovation, speaks directly to the pressure farmers are facing: rising input costs, climate uncertainty, disease risks, tighter margins and the constant need to farm smarter. For emerging farmers, this makes NAMPO more than a day out. It is a working classroom, a networking platform and a place to see what farming can become when practical knowledge meets new technology.
What visitors can expect
NAMPO remains one of the few places where farmers can compare a wide range of products, services and technologies on one terrain. From machinery and inputs to financing, vehicles, digital tools and expert-led discussions, the event is designed to help producers make informed decisions. Grain SA describes NAMPO as a trade-oriented agricultural exhibition with a strong focus on practical farming solutions, rather than entertainment or flea market-style displays.
More than 900 exhibitors are expected this year, with working demonstrations across large areas of land. Machinery, precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, drone technology and smarter production systems are expected to be major talking points.
There will, however, be one notable change. Due to foot-and-mouth disease risks, no live cloven-hoofed animals will be allowed at this year’s event. Instead, the programme will include digital genetic displays and biosecurity-focused education.
Why the theme matters
“Resilience through Innovation” is not just a neat slogan. It reflects where agriculture finds itself in 2026. Grain SA notes that producers are farming under mounting pressure, from climate risks and input costs to pests, diseases, market uncertainty and policy shifts. In this environment, resilience is no longer only about surviving difficult seasons. It is about adapting, improving efficiency and protecting profitability through practical innovation.
For small and emerging farmers, that message is important. NAMPO offers access tothe same conversations and technologies shaping the future of commercial agriculture,but it also allows visitors to ask direct questions, compare options and understand whatcan realistically work in their own operations.
Motoring takes centre stage
Vehicles are always a big part of NAMPO, and this year the motoring presence brings added excitement.
Toyota South Africa Motors is using NAMPO for a major Hilux moment. On Wednesday,13 May, Hilux owners from across the country are expected to gather at NAMPO Parkfor a series of Guinness World Records attempts celebrating the all-new ninth-generation Toyota Hilux. Participants stand a chance to win a next-generation Hilux XtraCab, with Toyota Insurance cover and accessories included.
The Toyota experience will go beyond the record attempt. Visitors can expect activations from Toyota Financial Services, Toyota Insurance, Hino and Lexus, as well as Toyota merchandise and family-friendly entertainment.
Volkswagen Group Africa is also stepping into NAMPO with a strong focus on innovation and future mobility. Visitors can expect a diverse showcase that speaks to both working farms and everyday business needs, led by the powerful Amarok Pan Americana and supported by proven commercial solutions like the Crafter and Transporter.
There is also a glimpse into what lies ahead, with early access to the new Caravelle plug-in hybrid, signalling a move towards electrified mobility in the sector. Along side this, models such as the Golf GTI, Touareg Final Edition and the all-new Audi Q3 bring a premium and lifestyle edge to the stand, while Ducati motorbikes add a performance-driven twist to the overall experience.
Nissan will also be at NAMPO, using the platform to highlight its long relationship with South African farmers. Its display will include the Navara Warrior, developed with Premcar, alongside heritage models from Nissan’s local collection. The brand says NAMPO allows it to engage directly with customers who rely on bakkies for both work and lifestyle needs.
Make the most of it
For visitors heading to Bothaville, the best approach is to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes and plan the day around priority areas. The official gate programme will help visitors track demonstrations, competitions, women-focused sessions and key discussions.
For emerging farmers, the real value lies in asking questions. Speak to exhibitors, compare technologies, attend discussions and look closely at solutions that can improve efficiency, reduce waste or open new markets.
NAMPO 2026 arrives at a time when farming is being tested from every side. But it also arrives with a powerful reminder: agriculture’s future will belong to those willing to learn, adapt and innovate.
Hosted by Grain SA, NAMPO runs from 12 to 15 May 2026 at NAMPO Park, just outside Bothaville. Gates open at 07:00 and close at 17:00. Tickets cost R140 online through Open Tickets or R160 at the gate.
