South Africa’s vital infrastructure and construction sectors are poised for a monumental shift, as a convergence of ambitious policy commitments, surging private-sector interest, and unprecedented cross-sector collaboration promises to ignite tangible transformation across the built environment.
At the heart of this catalytic moment are the co-located Big 5 Construct South Africa and the South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo. Far more than mere trade showcases, these events have evolved into powerful platforms designed to accelerate progress, bringing together the nation’s key decision-makers, technical experts, and industry trailblazers. Set to unfold from Wednesday, June 18, to Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Gallagher Convention Centre, they aim to bridge the critical chasm between strategic planning and on-the-ground implementation.
The timing is impeccable, aligning with the government’s colossal commitment of over $50 billion (R1 trillion) in infrastructure investment over the next decade. Bolstered by pivotal blueprints like the National Infrastructure Plan 2050 and the Transmission Development Plan, the 2025 programme promises to deliver practical solutions, cultivate resilient systems, and foster inclusive growth.
Unlocking Knowledge to Accelerate Impact
A cornerstone of the events will be their comprehensive technical programmes and CPD-accredited knowledge platforms. Featuring over 30 sessions across four thematic streams, these meticulously curated discussions are designed to equip both public and private stakeholders with actionable insights crucial for advancing South Africa’s infrastructure, water, and construction ambitions.
“Our content programme has been developed to reflect the full scale of transformation underway in South Africa’s infrastructure, water and construction sectors,” stated Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President – Construction, dmg events. “With government-led development driving renewed momentum and private-sector contribution growing, these sessions will provide professionals with tangible insights into overcoming obstacles and unlocking opportunities.”
A High-Level Forum for Policy and Delivery
A significant new addition for 2025 is the two-day South Africa Infrastructure & Water Forum, hosted alongside the Expo for the first time. This exclusive forum, tailored for senior public and private decision-makers, will zero in on policy alignment, sustainable delivery models, and innovative funding strategies to accelerate national development goals.
Backed by the government’s robust infrastructure commitment, the first day of the forum will immerse attendees in focused conversations on national infrastructure priorities, including the critical areas of power generation, logistics, and the indispensable role of public-private partnerships.
Day two will pivot to the pressing challenges and innovative solutions within the water sector. Discussions will tackle South Africa’s alarmingly high water loss rates, upcoming reforms such as the establishment of the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency, and the substantial $8.44 billion (R156.3 billion) investment earmarked for expanding dams and bulk supply systems.
The forum boasts a stellar line-up of speakers, including Mameetse Masemola, Acting Head: Infrastructure South Africa; Johnson Kilangi, Founder & CEO: Miundo Misingi Hub (Kenya); Wynand Dreyer, Director: Dreyer Project Dynamics; Hendrik Malan, Partner & Africa CEO: Frost & Sullivan; Shabari Shaily-Gerber, Head: Urban Economic Development, British High Commission; and Mike Salawou, Director, Infrastructure and Urban Development Department: African Development Bank.
Practical Tools for Sustainable Delivery
Beyond the high-level forum, the Infra360 and Water360 knowledge streams will offer free-to-attend, CPD-certified sessions for all registered visitors. These streams will delve into the practical and strategic issues directly impacting infrastructure and water-system performance on the ground.
Infra360 will explore cutting-edge topics such as digital infrastructure and Building Information Modelling (BIM); 5D planning and digital twin technology; ethical considerations in construction; and the essential building blocks for cultivating a future-ready construction workforce. A key session by Sindi Kwenaite, Operations Executive, SACPCMP, will underscore the paramount importance of professional registration in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment.
Water360, on the other hand, will illuminate strategies for water-system resilience, the promise of decentralised solutions, smart water grids, efficient wastewater reuse, and sustainable product design. Insights will be shared by industry leaders such as David Crawley, Head: Product Line at Kwikot, and Heinrich Ueckermann, Business Development Manager: Freudenberg Performance Materials.
Upskilling for the Future
The popular CPD-accredited Big 5 Talks will also make a return, serving as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, strategic discussions, and the continuous professional development of construction professionals.
A not-to-be-missed highlight includes a compelling talk by Tyrelle Correa of Mirabilis Engineering Insurance Specialists, who will meticulously unpack how to effectively close liability gaps in project coverage – a critical concern for every stakeholder. Sanjay Munnoo, President of Saiosh, will present on the vital role of behavioural safety and the cultural shift required to significantly reduce risks across the entire construction lifecycle.
Further sessions will delve into the innovations in modular interiors, the imperative of sustainable housing solutions, and the enduring value of lifelong learning and upskilling in a rapidly evolving industry.
“The 2025 programme is closely aligned with South Africa’s economic-recovery priorities and the delivery timelines associated with the National Development Plan 2030,” Heijmans affirmed. “From actionable insights and knowledge sharing to business networking with key brands across the construction value chain, this year’s Big 5 Construct South Africa and South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo will create a space for candid conversations, practical guidance and policy-aligned thinking.”