Home » Big 5 Construct South Africa ignites innovation and economic growth for the construction sector in 2024

Big 5 Construct South Africa ignites innovation and economic growth for the construction sector in 2024

by Tia
  • Regional and international organisations from more than 20 countries are showcasing their expertise at the event
  • The Stakeholders Engagement Forum on 4 June will include notable industry leaders, decision-makers and thought leaders from across the industry
  • The African Smart Cities Summit will take place at the event on 05 June driving conversations around urban development, technology and sustainability

The world is up against significant infrastructural challenges. Water shortages, sustainable energy, robust infrastructure, and complex market conditions are putting pressure on the construction sector, both in South Africa and abroad. In South Africa, the construction industry is anticipated to grow by 1.3% in 2024 with a 3.7% projected AAGR. Big 5 Construct South Africa, taking place from 04-06 June 2024 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, is bringing these challenges and narratives to light over three days of networking, exhibits and content programmes.

The event is set to host more than 8,500 attendees, who will connect with over 200 exhibitors from 20 countries. Big 5 Construct South Africa will include more than 20 sessions across Big 5 talks alongside the African Smart Cities Summit and the Stakeholders Engagement Forum.

“Big 5 Construct South Africa brings together influential decision-makers, subject matter experts, and thought leaders in a space designed to enhance networking and learning opportunities,” said Mehtap Gürsoy, Portfolio Director – Construction, dmg events. “Big 5 Talks are CPD certified and currently there are more than 35 speakers set to provide educational and informative sessions that will count towards attendee CPD points. This is a significant benefit to those operating within the construction sector as they can not only connect with thought and market leaders but expand their skillsets while meeting their CPD requirements.”

Influential conversations at the Stakeholder Engagement Forum

Returning on the opening day of Big 5 Construct South Africa is the Stakeholders Engagement Forum which unites public and private sector leaders to collaborate on positively influencing the construction industry’s trajectory.

This year, the forum will be focused on the theme of ‘Building Tomorrow’s Cities’ exploring critical aspects including infrastructure, connectivity and the transformative impact of technology’. It will feature insightful discussions and conversations, with Aubrey Tshalata, National President, National African Federation for the Building Industry (NAFBI) and Sekadi Phayane-Shakhane, Chief Executive Officer, South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) delivering the welcome address.  Among other engaging sessions, the forum will host a panel discussion moderated by Friedrich Slabbert, Director, Sciendum and featuring prominent speakers such as Refilwe Lesufi, Chief Executive Officer, Prama Consulting & VP SAICE; Vishaal Lutchman, Managing Director – Transport, Zutari; and Hubert Joynt, Head – Centre of Excellence, Infrastructure South Africa as well as Themba Mahambi the Chairman for the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL).

Commenting on the forum, Gürsoy said: “Prioritizing sustainable development, the forum advocates for eco-friendly practices and resilient urban planning to safeguard African cities against climate change. Beyond physical structures, discussions extend to the economic and societal impact of the built environment, aspiring to cultivate sustainable, inclusive and resilient communities ready for future challenges.”

Captivating discussions at the African Smart Cities Summit

One of the core events taking place is the African Smart Cities Summit which stands as a pivotal event on the continent. It is focused on unravelling the immense potential of smart cities and is an essential event for those interested in the intersection of urban development, technology and sustainability within the African context.

This year’s African Smart Cities Summit will be hosted by Professor Susan Bouillon, Extraordinary Professor in Planning Law at North West University and includes among its roster of speakers: Olivier Twagira Yezu,  Unit Manager: Digital Trade and Services, Smart Africa, Rwanda discussing the current construction landscape; Demola Aladekomo, Executive Chairman, Smart City, Nigeria, unpacking smart infrastructure development; Faranani Gethe, Chief Building Inspector, City of Johannesburg, South Africa, talking about the balance of urban regeneration; and Cameron Mc Millan, Director, SA Clean Water, South Africa, focusing on leveraging the Internet of Things for water security and optimization.

The African Smart Cities Summit will be taking place on 5 June, the second day of the event, and will include panel discussions, case studies and engaging debates covering critical areas of concern in South Africa. Commenting on the value of the African Smart Cities Summit, Gürsoy said: “This event addresses real-world solutions that transcend theoretical sustainability concepts and turn them into tangible actions.”

Registration is now open with free admission to trade and industry professionals over the age of 18. For more information visit: https://www.big5constructsouthafrica.com/

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