This archive report was first published on 7 November 2019.
Kenya's construction sector is poised for growth, with foreign companies eyeing the country's mega projects under the Big Four Agenda. The Big 5 Construct Kenya Expo, currently underway at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, has attracted over 210 firms from 30 countries.
Senior Vice President of dmg events, Ben Greenish, said the local construction industry continues to generate interest from foreign firms looking for partners in Kenya. "The local construction industry continues to generate interest from foreign firms looking for partners in Kenya. We are delighted to provide a platform where they can interact with international players seeking to introduce the latest building products and solutions to the region," he said.
Qatari firms are among those hoping to supply construction materials to the local industry. Tolga Olgun, products manager for Turkish firm Magamaweld, noted that Kenya's relative accessibility and proximity to other regional countries make it easier for Turkish firms to make inroads in the region.
Principal Secretary at the State Department of Public Works, Maj Gen (Rtd) Dr Gordon Kihalangwa, said the government has embarked on big construction projects that require collaboration with global industry players for best practices. "There is a lot our industry can learn from the foreign firms in terms of best practices in construction technology. Local agents can also get firsthand information on the prices of machines and related expertise," he said.
