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Korea’s Cutting-Edge Smart City Tech on Display at Big 5 Construct Kenya Exhibition


  • The Big % Construct Kenya 2024 Expo has officially opened at Sarit Centre, Westlands, Nairobi
  • The three-day event, which runs from Wednesday, November 6 to Friday, Novemebr 8, brought other about 150 construction companies from about 25 countries
  • Nine Korean companies showcased their businesses at the exhibition, including cutting-edge Smart City Tech
  • The companies demonstrated a significant moment in Kenya-Korea economic ties and relations for over 60 years

NAIROBI, Kenya – On November 6, a dazzling showcase of advanced technology and construction innovation took center stage in Nairobi, as nine leading Korean companies joined the Big 5 Construct Kenya Exhibition.

The Big 5 construct event brought together 8,500 stakeholders.
From left, Ms Hyemin Lee, Hamsol Home Decor, Matt Denton, Joel P.L. Arumonyang, PS Public Works; and Mr. Jungoel Shin, from KOTRA, at the Big 5 Construct Kenya. Photo: Big 5 Construct Kenya.
Source: UGC

The three-day event, running from November 6-8 at the Sarit Expo Centre, marks a significant moment in Kenya-Korea relations, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic cooperation.

Why Smart City Tech is at Big 5 Construct Kenya 2024

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As Kenya ambitiously pursues its Vision 2030 development goals, participants said the country is ready to become a leader in smart city infrastructure in Africa.

This year’s Big 5 Construct Exhibition holds added significance for Kenya and Korea, which celebrated their diplomatic anniversary just over a month ago with the Korea-Kenya 60th Anniversary Economic Diplomacy Program.

The two-day event, held in early October, underscored both nations’ commitment to strengthening economic ties and deepening cooperation in various fields, from technology to urban planning.

As part of this continued commitment, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) have joined forces to bring Korean industry leaders to Kenya, creating a platform for Kenyan stakeholders to explore cutting-edge solutions tailored to the nation’s unique needs.

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“Over the last six decades, Korea and Kenya have collaborated and advanced in political, economic, and cultural arenas. This exhibition demonstrates our dedication to Kenya’s development journey,” said KOTRA Managing Director Ko Sung Min.

Korean companies participating in the event bring an extensive range of expertise in smart city solutions and urban infrastructure, aligning with Kenya’s strategic vision for sustainable urbanization.

Other Korean companies at Big 5 Construct Kenya

The nine companies represented by KOTRA at this year’s exhibition bring pioneering solutions across diverse sectors, showcasing Korea’s strength in innovation and infrastructure.

Highlights include Samsung’s latest smart home appliances, which are designed for enhanced energy efficiency and connectivity, aligning with Kenya’s smart home market potential.

Meanwhile, MYUNG JI Engineering Consultants offers forward-thinking construction technology, while Kumkang Kind demonstrates its groundbreaking aluminium formwork, which promotes efficient and durable construction methods.

Equipped with sophisticated drone surveillance capabilities, AERO Research is also drawing attention, providing real-time security solutions ideal for large projects and expansive construction sites.

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RXO, another top exhibitor, presents AI-powered fire alarm systems, exemplifying Korea’s commitment to advanced safety solutions for Kenya’s smart city development.

POQUTEC showcased its top-tier construction equipment attachments, including hydraulic hammers, which have already seen significant success in Kenya with over 160 units sold.

Known for their reliability and performance, POQUTEC’s attachments enhance efficiency on construction sites, aligning perfectly with Kenya’s infrastructure ambitions.

In addition, Dongwoo International Corporation, with over three decades of expertise, brought its impressive lineup to Nairobi.

This trusted industry leader provides a wide array of construction solutions—from road and bridge items to renewable energy structures—offering Kenyan developers cutting-edge products honed by years of technical know-how.

Their versatile portfolio supports projects across various terrains, making them invaluable in Kenya’s diverse infrastructure landscape.

“Being here at the Big 5 Construct is a unique opportunity for us,” noted Hansol Home Decor’s Sales Manager, Hyemin Lee, whose company is showcasing finishing materials like decorative MDF panels for doors, flooring, and walls.

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“It’s essential to nurture relationships that can foster long-term partnerships in Kenya’s growing construction sector.”

What to know about Big 5 Construct Expo

The exhibition is expected to attract over 100 Kenyan buyers and key partners who will engage in business matchmaking and in-person meetings, facilitating an ideal environment for cross-border cooperation.

Kenya’s Vision 2030 blueprint outlines the country’s ambition to develop smart cities, with Nairobi and Konza earmarked as key hubs.

The blueprint identifies intelligent transportation systems (ITS), smart energy grids, and innovative waste management solutions as critical areas of development to propel Kenya into a future-ready, sustainable urban environment.

The Korean delegation at the Big 5 Construct event is providing Kenyan stakeholders with insights into technologies and systems that can accelerate these goals.

For instance, RXO’s AI-driven fire alarms and AERO Research’s drone surveillance capabilities offer advanced safety and security options for large infrastructure projects.

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Government officials at the exhibition said these innovations are pivotal to Kenya’s strategy of fostering safer, more efficient, and resilient urban environments.

Public Works PS Joel Arumonyang said the expo is a perfect opportunity for stakeholders to network with industry leaders and explore innovative solutions shaping the future of construction in Kenya.

“The Big 5 Construct Expo, a global event, comes at a time when the government, through the state Department of Public Works, is focusing on addressing several issues related to design, materials, and construction standards through the Building Code 2024.

“We are working closely with the Ministry of Environment to ensure our projects are climate resilient and embody the green aspect of the building code,” ,” said Arumonyang.

The PS emphasised the government’s commitment to providing a level playing field for manufacturers and other businesses in Kenya.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

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