Dirk Strydom, managing director of Nampo, told Farmer’s Weekly the event’s strength lies in its practical nature and broad appeal. Held on 2 and 3 October at Nampo Park outside Bothaville, Free State, Nampo Alfa brings together livestock, outdoor living, hunting, shooting sports and youth development activities under one banner.
“It’s nice to be back again. What’s nice about Alfa is that it’s practical. We were able to shoot .50-calibre rifles. The schools’ participation were also a nice part to watch during the Farm Skills competition ─ just to see the children’s passion. All in all it was a nice practical day,” Strydom said.
Earlier on the opening day, organisers highlighted how strict biosecurity measures and widespread vaccination compliance had enabled extensive livestock participation at this year’s event, despite ongoing concerns around foot-and-mouth disease.
The day unfolded against the backdrop of a livestock industry cautiously rebuilding confidence following a prolonged period of animal health challenges.
Road to recovery discussions
At the Road to Recovery discussion, role-players from across the livestock value chain reflected on the industry’s response to ongoing disease control challenges. A recurring message was that producers, industry organisations and government needed to work together more effectively if South Africa was to strengthen animal health systems and improve resilience.
The call for cooperation came amid visible frustration over communication and coordination within the current system. Farmers raised concerns about vaccine availability and government’s handling of animal health matters, while several speakers noted that South Africa already had many of the necessary structures, legislation and committed people in place.
Rather than creating additional layers of regulation, the discussion repeatedly returned to practical implementation, better communication, improved traceability and stronger collaboration as key parts of the way forward.
The conversation set the tone for a first day that was heavily focused on livestock production and the future of the red meat industry.
Competitions and livestock activities
While the Road to Recovery session attracted strong interest from industry stakeholders, the broader exhibition grounds reflected the increasingly diverse nature of Nampo Alfa, which combines livestock, outdoor living, hunting, shooting sports and family attractions.
Livestock competitions, such as the interbreed and different breed displays, remained a major drawcard, while visitors also gravitated towards hunting and outdoor equipment exhibits, camping displays and shooting demonstrations.
One of the more unusual attractions was a breeder exhibiting what she described as South Africa’s first miniature mules, attracting curiosity from visitors throughout the day.
Strydom said the first day’s focus traditionally differs from the weekend programme.
“Day one was a big red meat conversation. On the first day there are always more role-players, and on Saturday there are families.”
Among the standout attractions on Friday was the Farm Skills competition, which showcased practical agricultural abilities among school learners from across the country.
Teams competed in a range of disciplines, demonstrating skills that ranged from livestock evaluation to technical and mechanical tasks. One participant who drew particular attention was a Grade 11 learner from Kroonstad whose welding abilities impressed spectators and fellow competitors alike.
Strydom said while Day 1 usually starts slower, on the second day he expects more families to come through and enjoy the livestock and lifestyle elements of the show.
“The first day is always a test day, while Saturday is our big day. The main thing is the animals,” Strydom noted.
For more information, visit nampoalfa.co.za.
