Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
SENCON Dakar is the 12th International Exhibition for Construction Materials and Machinery, scheduled for 28-30 January 2027 at the Centre des Expositions Diamniadio in Dakar, Senegal. This event serves as a significant platform for networking and business opportunities in the construction sector, showcasing the latest innovations and technologies in building materials, machinery, and renewable energy.
SENCON Dakar takes place in Dakar, SN. Venue: Centre des Expositions Diamniadio.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: SENCON Dakar takes place from 28-30 January 2027 at Centre des Expositions Diamniadio, Dakar, Senegal.
- 2Scale and Focus: This is the 12th edition of West Africa's flagship exhibition for construction materials and machinery.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by Hage Group, with more details available at senconexpo.com.
- 4Buyer Authority: Expected attendees include developers, contractors, architects, and government authorities.
- 5Entry: Online tickets are available for purchase through the official website.
Why visit
Attendees will benefit from direct access to the latest construction technologies and materials, networking opportunities with industry leaders, and insights into market trends and challenges. Expected attendees include developers, contractors, architects, and government authorities.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at SENCON Dakar offers companies the chance to showcase their products to a targeted audience of construction professionals, gain visibility in the West African market, and connect with serious buyers. The event is designed to facilitate meaningful interactions and generate leads, making it a worthwhile investment for exhibitors.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Contractors and subcontractors sourcing cement, steel, formwork, scaffolding and site equipment for projects in Senegal and West Africa
Real estate developers and investors evaluating construction systems, energy packages and delivery partners for residential, commercial and industrial schemes
Architects, engineers and specifiers comparing materials, HVAC, electrical and building-services products against project specifications
Government and municipal infrastructure teams planning roads, water, sanitation, public buildings and PPP projects
Renewable energy developers, EPCs and distributors looking for solar PV, inverter, storage and off-grid suppliers
Procurement and supply-chain managers from construction distributors, wholesalers and trading companies
Facility managers and industrial buyers sourcing HVAC, electrical, maintenance and energy-efficiency equipment
Finance, insurance and PPP advisors supporting construction and infrastructure projects in Senegal
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Manufacturers of cement, concrete, aggregates, steel, blocks, roofing and waterproofing systems
Suppliers of earthmoving, lifting, concrete batching, compaction and road-building machinery
Solar PV, inverter, battery storage and off-grid system providers for construction and infrastructure projects
HVAC, plumbing, electrical and building-automation suppliers serving commercial and residential projects
Formwork, scaffolding, prefabricated building and construction-chemicals companies
Road, water, sanitation and infrastructure equipment suppliers for public works
Tools, safety equipment, PPE and site-services providers for contractors and subcontractors
Distributors, dealers and service companies targeting Senegal and the wider West African construction market
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Construction materials and systems: cement, concrete, aggregates, steel reinforcement, blocks, roofing and waterproofing
Heavy machinery and equipment: earthmoving, lifting, concrete batching, compaction and road-building equipment
Renewable energy solutions: solar PV, inverters, battery storage and off-grid systems for buildings and infrastructure
HVAC, plumbing, electrical and building-services equipment
Prefabricated buildings, scaffolding and formwork systems
Infrastructure equipment for roads, water, sanitation, ports and public buildings
Tools, safety equipment, PPE and site management services
Real estate development, construction finance and public-private partnership services
Location & Facilities
Venue
Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Dakar, Senegal
Facilities
Parking
Centre des Expositions Diamniadio in Dakar typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Centre des Expositions Diamniadio in Dakar typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Centre des Expositions Diamniadio for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Dakar, SN
Why it matters
On 2027-01-28 to 2027-01-30, SENCON Dakar in Dakar covering Construction materials and systems, Heavy machinery and equipment, Renewable energy solutions, HVAC systems and infrastr gives construction buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · XOF
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Blaise Diagne International Airport
Main international gateway for Dakar and Diamniadio. Confirm live transfer time and tolls; use a licensed taxi or pre-booked transfer
TBA
to venue
Approx. 38 min via A1 toll motorway; about 50 min via N1 depending traffic
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Radisson Hotel Dakar Diamniadio
5-star
Diamniadio / Rufisque150 m to venueUSD 230–265 / night
Breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, outdoor pool, hot tub, air conditioning, fitness center, bar
Four Points by Sheraton Dakar Diamniadio
4-star
Diamniadio / Rufisque2.2 km to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, free parking, outdoor pool, air conditioning, fitness center, restaurant, room service. Google Hotels capture flagged it at 18% less than usual for the search dates
Courtyard by Marriott Dakar Diamniadio
4-star
Diamniadio / Rufisque1.3 km to venueUSD 150–190 / night
Breakfast (paid), free Wi-Fi, free parking, outdoor pool, air conditioning, fitness center, restaurant, room service
Majestic Manor Hotel Apartment
apartment hotel
Diamniadio / RufisqueUSD 150–202 / night
Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi. Guest rating 4.9 in the Google Hotels capture
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Car / taxi via toll motorway
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forBlaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio via A1 toll motorway
Google Maps fastest route; the A1 leg carries tolls. Confirm live fares before travel.
Car / taxi via N1
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forBlaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio via N1
Shorter distance but slower than the A1 route in the Google Maps capture. Confirm live fares.
Car / taxi via Route de service and A1
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forBlaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Alternative to the fastest A1 route in the Google Maps capture.
Regional train (TER Dakar)
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forTER Dakar regional express serves the Dakar-Diamniadio corridor
TER Dakar operates the regional express line; check the station closest to the fairground before relying on it.
Urban bus
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forAFTU urban bus network in Dakar, including the Dakar-Urbain line 28 corridor
AFTU Senegal publishes Dakar urban line maps; verify the stop nearest the Diamniadio exhibition centre.
taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forDakar city centre or hotel districts to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Allow extra time for Dakar traffic; confirm the drop-off gate with the driver.
Weather
January is in Senegal's dry season. Expect warm, mostly dry days around Dakar and Diamniadio, with cooler evenings and occasional Harmattan dust or coastal haze. Confirm the forecast and air quality before travel.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Mobile coverage in Dakar and Diamniadio is generally good. Use an eSIM or local SIM for maps and ride-hailing; confirm your operator's Senegal data pass. Venue Wi-Fi may be available for exhibitors, but check with the organiser and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive business data.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Language and business greetings
French is the main business language in Senegal, with Wolof widely spoken in Dakar. English is common among international exhibitors but less so in taxis and local markets; keep key addresses in French.
Meetings and timing
A brief greeting before business talk is appreciated. Confirm meeting times in writing and allow for traffic between Dakar and Diamniadio, especially around build-up and show opening hours.
Dress and climate
Smart-casual business dress works for most stand meetings. January days are warm but evenings can be breezy near the coast; a light layer is useful for air-conditioned halls and evening transfers.
Currency and payments
The local currency is the CFA franc (XOF). Carry some cash for taxis and small purchases; confirm card acceptance at your hotel and on the fairground before relying on cards.
Local transport etiquette
Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps at night, share your route with colleagues, and keep valuables secure in crowded transport hubs. Confirm fares before departure where no meter is used.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Use Blaise Diagne International (DSS) as the international gateway for Dakar and Diamniadio; confirm your ticket does not route via a legacy city airport code. Allow 38-50 min by road to the venue and book airport transfer before departure. Compare live fares early and confirm baggage rules for any exhibition materials.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Blaise Diagne International Airport: Approx. 38 min via A1 toll motorway; about 50 min via N1 depending traffic.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Centre des Expositions Diamniadio: Diamniadio / Rufisque: Radisson Hotel Dakar Diamniadio; Diamniadio / Rufisque: Four Points by Sheraton Dakar Diamniadio; Diamniadio / Rufisque: Courtyard by Marriott Dakar Diamniadio.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing is used in Dakar, but confirm which apps are active and whether they serve Diamniadio before relying on them. Use the app quote or agree the fare before departure, and check the drop-off gate for Centre des Expositions Diamniadio.
Public transit: Dakar's public transport network combines the TER Dakar regional express along the Dakar-Diamniadio corridor, AFTU urban buses and the Dakar Dem Dikk network. Google Maps directions from Blaise Diagne airport to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio put the drive at 30-38 km depending on the route. For transit, check the TER Dakar timetable and AFTU line maps to match a stop with the fairground before travelling on show days.
Parking: The Centre des Expositions Diamniadio has on-site parking areas for exhibitors and visitors. Confirm daily rates, truck and oversize-vehicle access, and hall entry gates with the organiser or venue before travel.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: January 2027
Temperature: Approx. 18-30 C (64-86 F); coastal areas can feel cooler with breeze, while inland Diamniadio may be warmer. Confirm forecast before travel.
Seasonality: Dry season. Rain is uncommon in January, but Harmattan dust or coastal haze can affect visibility and air quality; check local forecasts before travel.
Packing: Light breathable clothing, a layer for breezy evenings, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes for the fairground, and a reusable water bottle. Bring a light jacket if you feel the coastal chill.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at SENCON Dakar usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 1
Check visa and entry rules for Senegal for your nationality, plus passport validity and any business invitation letter.
Day 2
Compare flights to Blaise Diagne International (DSS) and allow 38-50 min for the transfer to Diamniadio.
Day 3
Download the TER Dakar timetable and AFTU line maps if you plan to use public transport.
Day 4
Prepare a short list of exhibitors in cement, steel, machinery, solar, HVAC and prefab systems.
Day 5
Request meetings with suppliers and confirm stand numbers once the exhibitor list is published.; Save the venue address in French and English for taxi drivers and ride-hailing apps.
Day 6
Pack light business clothes, sun protection and comfortable shoes for walking the fairground.; Check the January forecast and dust or haze conditions; bring a light layer for breezy evenings.
Day 7
Arrange some XOF cash or a working card for local transport and incidentals; confirm card acceptance at your hotel.
Day 8
Confirm mobile data or eSIM coverage for maps and ride-hailing in Dakar and Diamniadio.
Day 9
Review the conference schedule and product demo times; prioritise sessions relevant to your projects.
Day 10
Confirm registration and badge collection process on senconexpo.com; check whether your sector pass needs organiser approval.; Leave a buffer on arrival day for airport formalities and traffic into Diamniadio.
Day 11
Book accommodation in Diamniadio or Dakar and confirm the taxi, shuttle or TER plan to Centre des Expositions Diamniadio.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2SENCON Dakar registration concourse
Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Centre des Expositions Diamniadio
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nightsF CFA 190
- Per diem × 2F CFA 150
Estimated totalF CFA 340
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether SENCON Dakar fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For SENCON Dakar, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Construction materials and systems and Heavy machinery and equipment solutions and benchmarking suppliers at SENCON Dakar in Dakar.
Min. budget
$680.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Construction materials and systems and Heavy machinery and equipment products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$3,060.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Dakar show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is SENCON Expo?
SENCON Expo is a construction and energy exhibition at the Centre des Expositions Diamniadio near Dakar. The programme covers construction materials, heavy machinery, renewable energy, HVAC and building services; check senconexpo.com for the current floor plan and conference schedule.
When is the 2027 edition?
The 2027 edition is listed for January 2027. Exact show days and opening hours should be confirmed on the official senconexpo.com schedule before booking travel.
Where is the venue?
Centre des Expositions Diamniadio, in the Diamniadio / Rufisque area outside central Dakar. The site is about 30-35 km from Blaise Diagne International Airport depending on the route.
How do I get from the airport to the venue?
From Blaise Diagne International (DSS), take a licensed taxi, pre-booked transfer or ride-hail to Diamniadio. Captured Google Maps routes take about 38 min via the A1 toll motorway and about 50 min via the N1; allow 30-50 min and confirm tolls and app availability. The TER Dakar regional express serves the Dakar-Diamniadio corridor, but check the station closest to the fairground.
Who should attend?
Contractors, developers, architects, engineers, procurement teams, government infrastructure agencies, renewable energy EPCs and distributors sourcing construction materials, machinery, HVAC, solar and prefab systems for Senegal and West Africa.
Can exhibitors bring heavy machinery?
Machinery is within the show's product scope, but you must confirm stand build rules, floor loading, rigging, power, customs and on-site handling with the organiser before shipping.
Is the show open to trade visitors only?
The event is positioned as a trade fair for construction and energy professionals; confirm visitor registration rules, badge requirements and opening hours on the official site before travelling.
What language is used at the show?
French is the main business language in Senegal, and Wolof is widely spoken locally. International exhibitors often use English; bring French-language product sheets if you want to reach local contractors and distributors.
Can I park at the venue?
The Centre des Expositions Diamniadio has parking areas; confirm daily rates, truck access and hall entry gates with the organiser or venue before arrival.
Glossary
- Cement
- Powdered binder mixed with water, sand and aggregate to make concrete; a core product family for contractors and ready-mix suppliers at the show.
- Concrete
- Construction material made from cement, aggregates and water; buyers compare mix designs, admixtures and batching equipment for projects in Senegal.
- Rebar
- Steel reinforcement bars placed in concrete to carry tensile loads; specifiers check grade, diameter, coating and corrosion protection for coastal projects.
- Formwork
- Temporary moulds that hold wet concrete until it cures; suppliers show reusable systems for walls, columns, slabs and foundations.
- Scaffolding
- Temporary access and support structure for construction workers; buyers compare safety standards, modularity and erection speed.
- EPC
- Engineering, procurement and construction contract model; energy and infrastructure developers use EPCs to deliver solar, water and building projects.
- HVAC
- Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; at this show buyers source chillers, ducts, split units and building-services equipment.
- Solar PV
- Photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity; Senegal projects use PV for grid, commercial, industrial and off-grid power.
- Inverter
- Equipment that converts DC power from solar panels or batteries into AC power for buildings, equipment and the grid.
- BESS
- Battery energy storage system; stores solar or grid power for peak demand, backup and grid stability.
- Prefabricated building
- Building components or modules manufactured off-site and assembled at the project location; buyers compare speed, cost and quality control.
- Waterproofing
- Materials and systems that stop water entering roofs, basements and wet areas; critical for coastal and rainy-season durability.
- PPP
- Public-private partnership; a delivery model where government and private investors share risk on infrastructure projects.
- BOQ
- Bill of quantities; an itemised list of materials, labour and works used to price and compare construction tenders.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Building Materials Expo Dakar
- SENCON Dakar 2027
- SENCON 2027
- Dakar SN
- Construction and Infrastructure Dakar 2027
- Construction materials and systems
- Heavy machinery and equipment
- Renewable energy solutions
- HVAC systems and infrastructure equipment
Trust footer
Sources
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References
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Publishers
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Date checked
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SENCON
- event_website
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.