Mombasa ASK show organisers hike ticket prices ahead of annual event

Mombasa ASK show organisers hike ticket prices ahead of annual event

The exhibition, which runs from Wednesday, September 3, to Sunday, September 7, is themed 'Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth'.

Visitors attending this year’s Mombasa Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) International Show will have to pay more at the gate after organisers revised admission charges upwards.

Adults will now part with Sh350, up from Sh300, while children will be required to pay Sh300, compared with last year’s Sh250.

Branch chairperson Henry Nyaga said six payment booths have been set up to ease access to the exhibition grounds. He noted that although the ticket prices had risen, organisers had ensured adequate facilities to manage the expected crowd.

The exhibition, which runs from Wednesday, September 3, to Sunday, September 7, is themed 'Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiative for Sustainable Economic Growth'.

Indigenous vegetables at Sinlaw Seeds stand. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Nyaga told reporters that preparations were at an advanced stage, with more than 1,000 exhibitors already confirmed.

This year’s programme will introduce learners to new technologies, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in farming. “We live in a digital age where farmers apply sensors, drones and robotics to track weather, soil and crops. Precision farming is the future, and this is what our students and farmers will get to learn here,” Nyaga said.

At least 100 schools have committed to bringing their pupils to the event. Nyaga urged more teachers to encourage participation, saying exposure to modern farming practices would help students develop entrepreneurial ideas.

Young farmer Omar Mwadzendze echoed the chairman’s remarks, assuring parents that children attending the show would gain vital lessons. “Both children and adults should embrace agriculture because it is rewarding and only demands energy and commitment,” he said.

Women arranging beads. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

For adults, the show will also serve as a one-stop shop for various government services, including applications for certificates of good conduct at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) stand, registration with the Social Health Authority (SHA), and National Social Security Fund (NSSF) services.

Alongside local participants, exhibitors from at least seven countries are expected to showcase their innovations. New entrants this year include the Export Processing Zones (EPZ).

President William Ruto is scheduled to officially open the exhibition on Thursday, September 4.

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