Livestock returns to Nampo Alfa 2026

Livestock farmers, breeders and agricultural stakeholders have reason to celebrate as Nampo Alfa 2026 will once again welcome live animals when the event takes place at Nampo Park on 2 and 3 October.

By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming

According to the organisers, the return of livestock is a major milestone for the industry, particularly for breeders who require months of preparation to get show animals ready. Nampo Alfa will be the first agricultural event in 2026 to host livestock exhibitions, giving producers, breeders and farmers the opportunity to once again showcase their animals and participate in a range of livestock-focused activities.

Milestone after years of restrictions

Nampo Alfa, South Africa’s leading platform for livestock, hunting, outdoor living and agricultural skills, has been significantly affected in recent years by the Covid-19 pandemic and recurring outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). These challenges resulted in strict restrictions on the exhibition of cloven-hoofed animals at agricultural events.

Organisers have now confirmed that livestock will return to this year’s event, subject to strict biosecurity protocols and compliance with all applicable animal health requirements.

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Strict biosecurity remains a priority

Dr Danie Odendaal, who drafted South Africa’s first biosecurity protocol for livestock events in 2018, said improved vaccine availability and progress with vaccination programmes have made it possible to responsibly reintroduce livestock exhibitions.

“The principle remains that only animals that comply with the applicable health and biosecurity requirements will be allowed at the event. The aim is to make participation possible, while still prioritising the safety of animals and the broader industry,” he said.

Dr Dirk Strydom, Managing Director of Nampo, said the decision to allow livestock had been taken with careful consideration. “The safety of animals, exhibitors and visitors remains a priority for us. Nampo Alfa is an important platform for the livestock industry, but it must be presented in a responsible manner. For this reason, normal biosecurity measures will continue to be strictly applied, and further details on the protocol will be shared with participants as it is finalised.”

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Breeders can begin preparations

Lizette Vermaak, co-organiser of the livestock programme, said the announcement gives breed societies and exhibitors the certainty they need to prepare animals and finalise their participation.

“This announcement gives breeders the opportunity to prepare their animals in time and gives societies the opportunity to fully utilise their exhibition spaces. It is an important step for the livestock industry and for everyone looking forward to seeing animals at Nampo Alfa again.”

Albert Loubser, livestock coordinator, said visitors can expect a comprehensive livestock programme featuring several major attractions.

Packed livestock programme

The programme will include the Old Mutual National Interbreed Championships, the National Interbreed Association programme, the Voermol Mega Ox competition, and the livestock component of the Farm Skills National Agricultural Schools Programme.

Visitors can also look forward to extensive large-stock and small-stock programmes, breed demonstrations for farmers and judges, and a herd evaluation by renowned livestock expert Pikkie Uys.

Beyond the livestock attractions, Nampo Alfa 2026 will offer a broader family-focused agricultural programme, camping facilities for visitors, and Landbouweekblad’s “Vir die Boer” programme. A day of prayer and gospel festival will also be held at the venue on the Sunday following the event.