Speakers are expected from organisations including the Ministry of Roads and Transport, National Construction Authority, Architectural Association of Kenya and the International Federation of Consulting Engineers /HANDOUTKenya’s construction sector is attracting increased attention from international suppliers as developers and contractors work on projects estimated at $26 billion (Sh3.38 trillion) according to Construct Africa.
The pipeline comes as the sector recorded a strong recovery in 2025, expanding by 6.8 per cent after contracting by 0.7 per cent in 2024, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics Economic Survey 2026.
Kenya accounts for 64.4 per cent of the value of identified construction projects in East Africa, making it the region’s largest construction market by project value, according to Construct Africa.
The size of the pipeline is expected to be a key focus when the Big 5 Construct Kenya exhibition returns to Nairobi for its ninth edition from October 21 to 23.
More than 150 exhibitors from over 25 countries are expected at the Sarit Expo Centre, with companies showcasing construction materials, equipment, digital technologies, building systems and specialist services.
The participation comes as demand grows for inputs and technologies required to deliver projects across housing, infrastructure, commercial buildings and other developments.
“Kenya’s substantial project pipeline is creating demand for a broad range of products, expertise and specialist services,” said the organiser of the exhibition Josine Heijmans, who is also the senior vice president at dmg events.
Companies from China, Egypt, Germany, Italy and Türkiye will participate through country pavilions, while international exhibitors include Liebherr, RIB Software, MC-Bauchemie, Ceramica Cleopatra and Silkcoat Paint Company.
Kenyan firms taking part include Kohler East Africa, Henkel Kenya, Wood Products Kenya, Elite Tools, King Tiles and Neuce Paints.
The exhibition will cover 12 areas of the construction industry, including building materials and finishes, concrete and cement, construction equipment, digital construction, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, intelligent buildings and modular construction.
Sustainability is also emerging as a growing consideration for construction companies and project developers.
A new feature at this year’s exhibition, the Big 5 Impact Trail, will bring together products marketed as lower-impact or resource-efficient construction solutions. Participating companies include Knauf Gypsum Tanzania, National Paints Factories, ProNature and The Supreme Industries.
The exhibition will also feature more than 25 sessions covering architecture and design, project management, technology, innovation, sustainability and contracting.
Speakers are expected from organisations including the Ministry of Roads and Transport, National Construction Authority, Architectural Association of Kenya and the International Federation of Consulting Engineers.
The construction industry’s recovery in 2025 follows a difficult 2024, when activity contracted by 0.7 per cent.
The rebound has been supported by continued activity in infrastructure and private construction, although developers continue to face challenges including high financing costs, input prices and project-delivery constraints.
“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,” added Heijmens.
The construction pipeline therefore presents opportunities for suppliers while increasing pressure on contractors and developers to adopt more efficient technologies and materials.
The Nairobi exhibition will provide a platform for local contractors, developers and other industry players to engage suppliers on equipment, materials and technologies for ongoing and planned projects.
