As Big 5 Construct South Africa, co-located with South Africa Infrastructure Expo, featuring Transport Evolution Africa entered the final day. The events’ programme was complemented by the 4th edition of Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards, held on the evening of 10 June, celebrating projects, organizations and individuals making a significant contribution to South Africa's built environment.

“The level of engagement we have seen across the event demonstrates the value of bringing construction, infrastructure and transport stakeholders together in one environment. Buyers, suppliers, project owners, investors and policymakers are connecting around the opportunities driving South Africa's development pipeline, while exhibitors are engaging directly with the decision-makers responsible for delivering projects across the region,” said Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President, dmg events.

The events saw continued activity across the exhibition floor and talks stages, as industry professionals gathered to explore opportunities, exchange expertise and discuss the future of construction, infrastructure and transport.

Spotlighting project delivery, infrastructure planning and transport growth

The second and third days of the exhibitions continued to spotlight discussions at the CPD-certified Big 5 Talks, which focused on improving project delivery, with industry experts examining the role of risk management, stakeholder alignment and accountability in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects more effectively. Presenting on risk mitigation and stakeholder management, Dr Alfred Theys, Acting Chief Operating Officer, South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), highlighted that project success is often determined long before construction begins, through early planning, stakeholder alignment and continuous monitoring throughout delivery.

The programme also explored practical approaches to sustainable construction, including the use of recycled materials and resource-efficient building methods.

At Infra360, Hugh Cole, Director: Policy and Strategy and Chief Data Officer, City of Cape Town, highlighted the growing role of data and AI in infrastructure planning, demonstrating how digital tools can support more informed decision-making, improve service delivery and help cities respond to future demand. Additional discussions examined smarter infrastructure delivery methods and technologies that can enhance efficiency across the project lifecycle.

Meanwhile, sessions at Transport Evolution Africa explored the role of special economic zones (SEZs) in supporting trade, logistics and industrial growth. Moderated by Gavin Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, The Road Freight Association, the discussion featured Dr Bheka Zulu, Chief Executive Officer, Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ); Martin Mahosi, Chairperson, Technical & Infrastructure Committee; Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ SOC); and Jabulani Sithole, Senior Manager - Business and Investor Support, Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (DTP SEZ) the session highlighted the importance of infrastructure quality, transport connectivity and integrated planning in creating competitive economic hubs that support trade, investment and local economic development.

A second panel discussion focusing on road and rail integration as a driver of regional connectivity and logistics efficiency brought together Warwick Lord, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Multimodal Inland Port Association | Cato Ridge Inland Port; Ian Bird, Senior Executive, Transport & Logistics, Business Unity South Africa/Business for South Africa; Kabelo Rabotho, Director, Micromobility, Stellantis South Africa; Russell Baatjies, Chief Executive, Transnet Freight Rail; Mawethu Vilana, CILTSA Member, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport; and Tshepo Kgobe, Chief Executive Officer, Gautrain, the discussion examined coordinated transport investment, freight efficiency and the role of public and private sector collaboration in strengthening regional trade and mobility.

The events concluded on a high note as Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards 2026 recognized impact in construction.

Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards 2026: Celebrating industry excellence

Spanning 13 awards, from Rising Star of the Year to Contractor of the Year, Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards recognized achievements in construction, infrastructure, sustainability, digital transformation and leadership, highlighting the breadth of talent and expertise across the industry.

"Behind every successful project are the people, teams and organizations that turn ambition into reality. Big 5 South Africa Impact Awards provide an opportunity to recognize the achievements that drive South Africa's built environment today, while highlighting the leadership, expertise and commitment that continue to drive the industry's future," said Heijmans.