Nairobi, Kenya | 21 October 2026: Big 5 Construct Kenya officially opened its ninth edition today at the Sarit Expo Centre, marking the start of three days dedicated to advancing Kenya’s construction sector ambitions under Kenya Vision 2030. The event was inaugurated by Dr Erick Rutto, President, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry, joined by Kennedy Onditi, National Director - Nyanza Region, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Alessandra Rainaldi, Director, Italian Trade Agency; Kareem Hamdy, Economic and Trade Counsellor, Embassy of Egypt; alongside Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President and Hussein Abdel Khalik, Associate Vice President – Commercial, from dmg events.
“Big 5 Construct Kenya presents an opportunity to attract investment, strengthen local manufacturing and accelerate affordable housing delivery. With consistent policies and stronger international partnerships, Kenya can become a leading hub for innovative construction materials serving the wider African market," said Dr. Erick Rutto.
“Kenya is one of East Africa’s most active construction markets. The sector is a key driver of the country’s economic growth and development, supported by a substantial pipeline of housing and urban development projects,” said Heijmans. “As these projects create new opportunities, we’re excited to welcome the industry over the next three days to explore the products, build partnerships and exchange knowledge to support national development and delivery ambitions.”
With more than 150 exhibitors from over 25 countries, Big 5 Construct Kenya brings together international suppliers and local businesses to present solutions for Kenya’s construction market. Country pavilions from China, Egypt, Italy and Türkiye return, joined by Germany, making its debut this year.
First-time exhibitors include Kohler East Africa, Elite Tools, Henkel Kenya and Kerovit, presenting products across building systems and tools, construction materials and sanitaryware. The exhibitor line-up also features Jafree Traders, RIB South Africa, Scaffolding Construction Company, Carldora, Neuce Paints, Emirates Aluminium Profile, Royal Industries and IKSUN/Southern Screws, with solutions spanning the full ecosystem of Kenya’s construction supply chain.
Spotlighting sustainability with the Big 5 Impact Trail
Kenya’s construction sector is transitioning toward sustainability, anchored by the Kenya National Buildings and Construction Decarbonization Roadmap (2026–2040) (Source: Global Buildings Performance Network (GBPN)). Reflecting this shift, Big 5 Impact Trail debuts this year with a curated showcase of solutions that respond to the growing demand for lower-impact materials in line with the country’s sustainability ambitions. Trail markers across the exhibition floor guide visitors to solutions such as ProNature’s VOC- and formaldehyde-free paints and sealers; Herz Middle East’s heating, air conditioning and sanitary systems; and Emirates Industrial Panels’ energy-efficient insulated panels, alongside products from Supreme, Surfaces Furnishing, Wood Products Kenya and National Paints Factories Co-Qatar.
Professional development through Big 5 Talks
Alongside the exhibition, the CPD-certified Big 5 Talks opened with a panel examining how to build confidence in Kenya’s changing construction landscape. Moderated by Ntando Teddy Khuzwayo, Membership and Education Lead, Sub-Saharan Africa, Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the discussion featured Dr Cecilia Wandiga, Executive Director, Centre for Science and Technology Innovations; Arch. Stephen Mwilu, Manager: Compliance, National Construction Authority; Njeri Maina, Senior Associate, Bowmans; and Jayant Raghwani, Group Director, Laxcon Group of Companies.
The discussion highlighted the importance of proactive risk management, regulatory compliance and clear contractual obligations in preventing costly disputes and protecting project investment. "Managing risk is not just about avoiding failure; it is about building trust, accountability and sustainable development," noted Dr Wandiga.
The programme then turned to the commercial realities of running a business, with Susan Elisha, Founder & Creative Director, FOMM Decor, highlighting the importance of pricing professional expertise fairly, building scalable business models and forming strategic industry partnerships. She also emphasized the value of connecting creative professionals with local industry players to expand collaboration and market opportunities. “Creative talent needs the right business to thrive,” said Elisha.
Reflecting the importance of standards, skills and collaboration across the construction value chain, Qs. Susan Rutto, Acting Chief Executive Officer, National Construction Authority (NCA) said: “Kenya’s construction industry continues to strengthen its focus to deliver quality, safe and sustainable buildings and infrastructure. Achieving these ambitions requires collaboration across the value chain, investment in skills and knowledge, and the adoption of evolving construction practices."
Qs Rutto continued: "Big 5 Construct Kenya brings industry stakeholders together to exchange expertise, explore emerging solutions and discuss the priorities that will support the sector’s development. As the industry regulator, the National Construction Authority welcomes the opportunity to contribute to these discussions, engaging directly with industry professionals to strengthen higher standards and the future of Kenya’s construction industry."
Across the three days, more than 25 CPD-certified sessions will gather industry experts from Modular Africa Kenya, the Chartered Institute of Building, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya and the Institution of Construction Project Managers of Kenya to address key construction priorities. Day two features a FIDIC masterclass, while Day three concludes with a leadership panel and training sessions from the Real Building Workers Association of Kenya.
Big 5 Construct Kenya is open from 10am to 5pm daily until 23 October. Entry is free for trade and industry professionals aged 21 and above. For more information and to register, visit www.big5constructkenya.com
Big 5 Construct Kenya returns for its ninth edition to Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi, from 21 – 23 October 2026 as Kenya’s construction sector continues to see activity across a substantial project pipeline, valued at $26 billion (Source: ConstructAfrica). Organized by dmg events, the event brings together more than 150 exhibitors from over 25 countries, offering a meeting ground for construction industry stakeholders to explore products, technologies and expertise relevant to Kenya’s active projects pipeline.
The scale of activity reflected in Kenya's project pipeline aligns with the country's broader development ambitions under Kenya Vision 2030 and the Construction Industry Development Policy. The construction sector rebounded from a 0.7% contraction in 2024 to grow by 6.8% in 2025 (Source: Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Economic Survey 2026), while Kenya accounts for 64.4% of East Africa's identified construction project value, highlighting its position as a leading construction market in the region (Source: ConstructAfrica).
“Kenya’s substantial project pipeline is creating demand for a broad range of products, expertise and specialist services, opening opportunities for companies looking to expand their presence in East Africa,” said Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President, dmg events. “Big 5 Construct Kenya brings local businesses together with suppliers and manufacturers from around the world, while giving international brands a closer understanding of the requirements and relationships that support project delivery in Kenya.”
Spotlighting international and local exhibitors
The exhibition floor will bring together companies spanning construction materials, building systems, equipment, digital technologies and specialist services, reflecting the range of requirements across Kenya’s construction pipeline. International participation includes companies such as Silkcoat Paint Company, Liebherr, GRUPO B&M, Krypton Chemical, Ceramica Cleopatra, MC-Bauchemie and RIB Software, presenting solutions across building materials, construction tools, digital construction and project management. Country pavilions from China, Egypt, Germany, Italy and Türkiye will also bring together companies showcasing products and expertise for the Kenyan market.
Participating from Kenya will include Kohler East Africa, Henkel Kenya, Wood Products Kenya, Elite Tools, King Tiles, Jafree Trader/BTALI and Neuce Paints, alongside other local companies supporting the country’s construction supply chain. The diversity in the lineup of exhibitors will give visitors access to products and technical expertise across areas including building interiors and finishes, concrete and cement, construction equipment, digital construction, HVACR, MEP, intelligent buildings, offsite and modular construction, solar and building envelope solutions.
Introducing Big 5 Impact Trail
This year, the event will host a new feature, Big 5 Impact Trail, which is a curated selection of eco-friendly construction solutions. The trail will cover dedicated markers across the exhibition floor, showcasing solutions such as lower-impact construction materials, resource-efficient technologies and products designed for long-term performance.
Exhibitors participating in the Big 5 Impact Trail include ProNature, Herz Middle East, Emirates Industrial Panel, National Paints Factories, The Supreme Industries, Knauf Gypsum Tanzania and Surfaces Furnishing. The trail connects the wider sustainability conversation at Big 5 Construct Kenya with products that visitors can explore for current and future projects, supporting the sustainable development ambitions outlined under Kenya Vision 2030.
CPD-certified Big 5 Talks
Running alongside the exhibition, the CPD-certified Big 5 Talks gathers regional and international experts to examine practical solutions in construction delivery. The programme will cover five themes: architecture & design, project management, technology & innovation, sustainability and contracting.
The speaker line-up includes representatives from the Ministry of Roads and Transport, National Construction Authority, Architectural Association of Kenya, the Centre for Science and Technology Innovations, International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), Turner & Townsend and Gentec Consulting, among other leading organizations.
“Across the three days, professionals will have the opportunity to see solutions first-hand, exchange knowledge with peers and have practical conversations around the projects and requirements driving the market,” concluded Heijmens.
Big 5 Construct Kenya is free to attend for all trade and industry professionals aged 21 and above. To register for free, click here.
Read through an in-depth industry briefing prepared by the African Circular Business Alliance (ACBA) as Knowledge Partner for Big 5 Construct Kenya.
DP World and Kenya-based GulfCap Africa have signed a joint venture Shareholders Agreement to advance the development of the Mombasa Industrial Park. Planned as a 222-hectare Special Economic Zone (SEZ), the strategic megaproject brings integrated industrial capacity and end-to-end logistics infrastructure directly to East Africa’s primary trade gateway.
The initial development phase covers 40 hectares of civil construction and specialized industrial warehousing. Designed to expand local manufacturing and reduce regional production costs, the state-of-the-art zone features multimodal supply chain connections, enabling tenant businesses to leverage international trade agreements like the AfCFTA, EU-EPA, and UAE-CEPA.
With supporting infrastructure backed by the Kenyan government, the greenfield SEZ has already attracted interest from over 60 local and international companies. Upon full completion, the master-planned industrial hub is projected to generate more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Source: Emirates News Agency - WAM
The Kenyan government is accelerating national road infrastructure upgrades to improve connectivity between agricultural regions, urban centers, and essential services. Managed by KeNHA, KURA, and KeRRA, the nation's road construction agenda focuses on paving rural links, dual-carriageway expansions, and heavy highway rehabilitation to alleviate severe urban congestion and prevent rain-related transport disruptions.
These ongoing civil engineering projects prioritize inter-county economic integration, streamlining the movement of goods between producers and commercial markets. Additionally, the infrastructure push emphasizes local workforce engagement, creating significant sub-contracting and employment opportunities for local engineers, equipment operators, and material suppliers across the domestic building sector.
To safeguard these capital investments, public road agencies are prioritizing long-term routine maintenance, drainage engineering, and enhanced traffic management systems. Ensuring durable road conditions remains central to driving long-term socio-economic growth and regional trade expansion across Kenya.
Source: Mjengo Hub
Key stakeholders across Kenya’s construction sector are advancing initiatives to formalize the nation's artisan (fundi) workforce. Led by the National Construction Authority (NCA) and industry partners, the drive establishes formal technical training, safety compliance, and official certification pathways for experienced workers who acquired their skills through informal apprenticeships.
Collaborative programs- including the BioTank Africa Fundi Forum- are partnering with technical institutions and universities to enable Recognition of Prior Learning. This mechanism formally assesses existing practical skills, offering artisans a clear gateway into the structured economy while upskilling them on modern construction technologies, occupational safety, and building regulations.
By professionalizing artisans, industry leaders aim to elevate overall building standards and ensure public health compliance, particularly across expanding infrastructure hubs like Kitengela. The broader framework also integrates training on workplace wellness, ethics, and tax compliance to empower workers as qualified contractors.
Source: The Star
Lamu County, Kenya, is poised for massive economic transformation driven by a $100 million palm oil processing plant and a $16 billion multi-trillion shilling petroleum refinery project. The agricultural initiative, located at Witu Nyangoro Ranch, directly targets Kenya’s $1 billion import bill by boosting local production, creating roughly 3,000 jobs, and stimulating surrounding transport and logistics ecosystems.
Concurrently, preparations are in advanced stages for the landmark Dangote petroleum refinery, which will feature a processing capacity of 700,000 barrels per day. The major energy build aims to secure domestic fuel independence while serving as a strategic hub supplying petroleum products across East Africa.
From a construction perspective, initial site preparation for the refinery- including extensive engineering and soil testing- is slated for an October 2026 groundbreaking, with an estimated four-year build schedule. Together, these complementary mega-projects establish critical industrial infrastructure that will reshape Lamu into a regional trade powerhouse.
Source: Business Insider Africa
Egypt has proposed a $100 million financing mechanism to fund dam construction and water infrastructure development in Kenya. Finalized during official diplomatic meetings in Nairobi, this massive funding initiative directly supports Kenya's regional water security and climate resilience.
The $100 million facility will target critical groundwater extraction, rainwater harvesting, and multi-purpose dam projects, including the proposed Koru Dam. Implementation remains strictly conditional on compliance with international law to safeguard downstream flows within the shared Nile Basin.
This initiative expands the 2025 Egypt-Kenya Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which also targets a joint maritime shipping line linking Red Sea ports with Mombasa and Lamu. Technical project reviews will be finalized at the upcoming Joint Commission session in Cairo
Source: Smart Water Magazine
On November 28, 2025, President William Ruto officially broke ground on the Rironi–Mau Summit Road project at Kamandura, Kiambu County. This landmark infrastructure development, valued at USD 863 million, covers Phase I of the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit (A8) and the Nairobi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha (A8 South) corridors. Spanning 139 kilometers from Nairobi to Gilgil and Naivasha, the project is slated for a two-year construction period followed by a 28-year operational phase, marking a significant step in modernizing Kenya’s primary transit routes.
The project is being implemented through a strategic Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). President Ruto emphasized that this model represents "smart governance," allowing the state to deliver critical infrastructure without increasing the national debt burden or raising taxes. By leveraging private capital and NSSF's investment, the government aims to bypass traditional budgetary constraints and accelerate the "Kenya reborn" vision through high-impact industrial collaboration.
Beyond local transit, the highway serves as a vital regional gateway linking East Africa to the Western and Northern corridors. The upgrade includes grade-separated interchanges, overpasses, and underpasses designed to enhance safety and lower vehicle operating costs. By facilitating the seamless movement of agricultural produce and international trade, the project directly supports Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), solidifying the nation’s standing as the leading trade and transport hub in the region.
Source: Ministry of Roads and Transport
Nairobi’s transport landscape is set for a major boost as the Ministry of Roads announces the accelerated completion of the Ngong Road Bridge, now projected for July 2026- over a year ahead of schedule. Funded by a $20mn concessional loan from the Spanish government with a 55-year repayment period, the project utilizes preassembled steel modules to fast-track installation. Once operational, the bridge will significantly reduce travel times and improve access to the upcoming Talanta Stadium, a key venue for national and sporting events currently under construction along the same route.
Simultaneously, works have resumed on the $23mn Kenyatta Avenue viaduct after a three-year stall. This revival was made possible through the government’s innovative road securitization program, which leverages the Road Maintenance Levy Fund to unlock stalled projects. Fully funded by the Government of Kenya, the viaduct is slated for completion by May 2027. It aims to provide a seamless link between Nairobi’s Central Business District and the Upper Hill area, addressing chronic congestion in the city’s core.
These urban projects are designed to complement Kenya’s larger mobility goals, including the monumental Nairobi-Mombasa Usahihi Expressway. The strategic importance of these developments is underscored by the recent addition of UK-based Turner & Townsend to the Usahihi consortium, joining Everstrong Capital and KeNHA. By integrating localized bridge works with massive highway expansions, the government intends to enhance national competitiveness and transform Nairobi into a more efficient regional transport and logistics hub.
Source: Construction Review Online
