Over 8,800 professionals gather to spotlight innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable development in Johannesburg
The 2025 edition of Big 5 Construct South Africa, held in conjunction with the inaugural South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo, concluded on a high note after three days of dynamic networking, CPD-certified learning, and thought leadership. The events welcomed 8,858 construction and infrastructure professionals, reinforcing South Africa’s pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable and resilient development.
Supporting the National Infrastructure Plan 2050
Held at the Gallagher Convention Centre, the co-located events united public and private stakeholders, aligning with South Africa’s National Infrastructure Plan 2050. Key focuses included advancing water security, enabling smarter cities, and promoting inclusive infrastructure.
“With packed aisles and robust engagement, this year’s events reinforced the importance of construction and infrastructure in achieving national development goals,” said Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President – Construction, dmg events. “We look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.”
Global Exhibitors and Green Innovation in the Spotlight
Exhibitors from more than 20 countries showcased a diverse mix of solutions, from pre-engineered steel buildings and polymers to advanced plastic and energy systems. International pavilions included:
- China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Poland
- Acero Building Systems (UAE) – steel infrastructure
- Al Ayed Industrial Group (Saudi Arabia) – polymers and plastics
- Masa (Germany) – advanced plant tech
- Tilara Polyplast (India) – plastic sheet production
Sustainability emerged as a central theme, with exhibitors like GPT Renewables and FAW Vehicle Manufacturers South Africa presenting solar hybrids, water-saving tech, and smart waste solutions aimed at building long-term climate resilience.
Critical Conversations at Infra360, Water360, and the Infrastructure Forum
The four strategic content platforms – Big 5 Talks, Infra360, Water360, and the South Africa Infrastructure & Water Forum – attracted over 1,280 attendees across three days.
Highlights included:
- Governance and transparency in infrastructure development, led by Zweli Mahlangu and Friedrich Slabbert
- PPP models for housing, healthcare and resilience, featuring Wynand Dreyer, John Samuel, and Johnson Kilangi
- Digital transformation in project management, with Turner & Townsend’s Kumeran Pillay and Vivien Naidoo
- Diversity and inclusion in construction, with SAICE leaders Takalani Netshipale and Sekadi Phayane-Shakane
Boogertman + Partners Dominate Big 5 Impact Awards 2025
The third edition of the Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards honoured excellence across 12 categories. A standout winner was Boogertman + Partners, who received five awards, including:
- Residential Project of the Year – The One, Stellenbosch, a R1 billion student accommodation project
- Commercial Project of the Year – MMH Campus
- Environmental Excellence – Thaba Eco Village & Lifestyle Centre
- Retrofit Project of the Year – The Woods Shopping Centre
- Architecture Firm of the Year
Other notable winners included GIC (Contractor of the Year), WSP (Engineering Consultancy Firm of the Year), and Tshidi Mndzebele (Leading Woman of the Year).
Looking Ahead: Big 5 Returns in 2026
Following resounding success and positive industry sentiment, Big 5 Construct South Africa returns from 10–12 June 2026. For South African firms looking to expand globally, Big 5 Global in Dubai provides a gateway to growth across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.
For event details and 2026 exhibitor opportunities: www.big5constructsouthafrica.com
