A successful Big 5 Construction Southern Africa
The three-day event at Gallagher Convention from June 27-29 united over 200 exhibitors, 80 speakers, and stakeholders from over 45 countries.
The 10th edition of Big 5 Construct Southern Africa concluded recently with events including the Big 5 Southern Africa Construction Impact Awards and African Smart Cities Summit.
The Big 5 Construct event contributes significantly to the economic recovery, growth, and transformation of Southern Africa’s construction industry, placing a special focus on accelerating business through face-to-face engagement.
The three-day event at Gallagher Convention Centre from June 27-29 united over 200 exhibitors, 80 speakers, and stakeholders from over 45 countries.
Attendees enjoyed access to 6000 plus products and technologies and 30 CPD-accredited workshops, covering an array of themes from transformation to professional development, smart construction to architecture, real estate, and more.
Minister of South Africa’s National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala was also present as he expressed the government’s commitment to lead the sector to recovery, reflecting on the triumphs and challenges, including R1b in blended finance to accelerate growth and focusing on creating a thriving and more inclusive industry.
“This is a sunrise industry, not a sunset industry. Brick by brick, let us build a better construction sector together,” said Zikalala.
He added that improving learning opportunities to enter the industry, technical know-how, and particularly, supporting women-owned construction firms are among the key deliverables to improve the sector, along with promoting resilient infrastructure methods.
South Africa’s Construction Industry Development Board CEO, Bongani Dladla said that while SA does not have all the money to close the funding gap in the construction sector, “we must still do all we can to move projects to shovel-ready status while paving the way for an industry that adequately reflects the country’s demographics.”
Dr Msizi Myeza, CEO of the Council for the Built Environment, South Africa agreed that SA could improve on the good work being done towards a transformed industry.
This includes encouraging youth to consider a construction career and creating real opportunities for growth.
Deputy CEO of Business Unity South Africa Khulekani Mathe reiterated how crucial it is to improve the status quo on unemployment in the country, where the construction industry could provide many jobs and contribute to GDP growth.
Furthermore, the winners of the Big 5 Southern Africa Construction Impact Awards were celebrated while the African Smart Cities Summit delegates delved into how these innovative urban spaces can enhance the quality of life.
Portfolio director for Built Environment Tracy-Lee Behr said integrating sustainable solutions into industry best practice is the way forward.
“These events serve as a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering collaboration, and promoting inclusivity and sustainability across construction and infrastructure.
“It will take time and ongoing commitment to see further positive progress but as the saying goes; if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” concluded Behr.
Related Article:
Conference of speakers of parliaments concludes with a pledge to strengthen continental solidarity
