Following a two-year break, BuildEx Harare is set to return in 2026. The three-day event remains Zimbabwe’s premier exhibition dedicated to construction, design, property, home innovation, and lifestyle.
Last held in March 2024, the 2026 expo will showcase a diverse range of exhibits and activities designed to platform Zimbabwe’s current build and design capacity, infused with modern innovation, creative ideas, and international influence.
Organized once again by Prochnow Investments, the event will take place at the Golden Conifer events venue in Harare from Friday, July 17, to Sunday, July 19, 2026.
“Our key focus this year is to maintain and expand the scale, variety, and impact of the expo, while increasing visitor numbers now that the event is a staple on the Harare lifestyle calendar,” said Paul Cohen, organizer and coordinator of the expo.
“Moving beyond a simple trade platform for a dynamic and growing industry, we are introducing complementary entertainment and leisure activities. These are designed to appeal to the wider public and add significant value to the core event,” Cohen added.
Reflecting on previous success, Cohen noted that the 2024 expo demonstrated a clear demand for a centralized hub where suppliers of goods and services across various sectors can showcase their offerings to both local and international markets.
“To attract broader public interest, we are introducing several innovations this year. We want to enhance the lifestyle aspect of the expo, engaging consumers who are looking for education and information, as well as entertainment and social interaction,” he said.
As a hybrid event, the 2026 themes will feature a strategic mix of interests:
- Construction meets Lifestyle: Bridging industrial utility with aesthetic living.
- Smart Home Technology: Providing a platform for the latest in home automation.
- Sustainability: Emphasizing green design and eco-friendly building solutions.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Creating a welcoming space through adjunctive social and leisure activities.
Feedback from the 2024 inaugural event was overwhelmingly positive, establishing a strong foundation for the BuildEx brand. However, organizers are now focused on driving higher foot traffic through increased awareness and a series of “visitor-friendly” attractions that go beyond the traditional trade show format.
“In the coming weeks, we will roll out the full programme as we finalize our list of exhibitors and special activities. For now, our primary goal is to announce the dates and ensure the business community is ready to come on board for BuildEx 2026,” said Mr. Cohen.
