BLOEMFONTEIN – Owing to current circumstances regarding foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in South Africa, the Bloem Show cattle and small-stock show for 2026 will not take place. The show is one of the attractions at this annual consumer event, marking 143 years of existence.
This year’s edition of the Bloem Show will take place in Bloemfontein from Thursday 23 April to Sunday 2 May.
Elmarie Prinsloo, chief executive officer (CEO) of Bloem Show, explained that the cancellation of the cattle and small-stock show was significant to avoid risk to livestock.
She confirmed that all other divisions of the show will be presented as scheduled.
“It is of great importance that the risk of spread to the cattle, sheep, and goats of our breeders and farmers is limited as far as possible. Therefore, we at Bloem Show are taking the responsible decision, in the interest of our stud breeders, associations, and the broader agricultural sector, to restrict the gathering of cloven-hoofed animals on the Bloemfontein showgrounds until further notice.
“This decision has not been taken lightly and follows extensive consultations with industry leaders and stakeholders. This decision will have a significant primary and secondary impact on the local economy in terms of service providers, participants, and the marketing platform for breeders, institutions, and associations,” said Prinsloo. According to her, the decision was made with consideration of the national situation and crisis caused by FMD.
“Current data indicates that the peak of the outbreaks has not yet been reached, and although intense work is being done behind the scenes and the minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced a national strategy this week, it appears that timelines and risks remain a challenge for this year’s Bloem Show,” said Prinsloo. She confirmed that this year’s National Saddle Horse Show and horse competitions, including commercial competitions with exhibitors, are not impacted. Others to continue as scheduled include entertainment, funfair, and food stalls.
“We are confident that all role-players, including breeders, farmers, breeder societies, the agricultural community, service providers, and members of the public, will understand the situation and support this difficult decision,” said Prinsloo. While the threat of deadly animal disease strongly serves as reminder of the Covid-19 pandemic, Prinsloo said measures are in place to ensure the success of this year’s edition.
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