We successfully hosted two branch functions in the Western Cape and Gauteng, bringing together industry professionals to strengthen collaboration, share insights, and advance the engineering profession across these regions. 

Building on this momentum, we look forward to hosting two additional branch engagements. Our KwaZulu-Natal Branch Function will take place on 23 April 2026, at 08h00, at the Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch, followed by our Limpopo Branch Function on 20 May 2026, at 17h00, at Meropa Casino and Entertainment World. 

Western Cape Branch Function 

We hosted our Western Cape Branch Function, on the 5th of March,  bringing together members, clients, and stakeholders to reflect on the role of engineering in shaping South Africa’s future. Our President Dr. Vishal Haripersad, also Regional Manager of Knight Piésold Africa, invited members to reflect on the responsibility carried by the profession under the theme: “If Not Engineers, Then Who? Reclaiming Our Purpose, Securing Our Future.” 

Dr. Haripersad emphasised that, despite current infrastructure challenges, South Africa has not lost its engineering capability.  

Where expertise is respected, planning is sound, and maintenance is prioritised, infrastructure continues to work. He also unpacked four key principles guiding our priorities: accountability for building capability; accountability for the value we deliver; accountability for integrity; and securing a meaningful seat at the decision-making table. 

Guest speaker Kim Timm, Structural Engineer and Academic at Stellenbosch University, highlighted the importance of balancing technical expertise with leadership and management skills, while emphasising the role of collaboration in addressing infrastructure challenges and strengthening the sector’s skills pipeline. Members also heard from Christo Rix, Chief Engineer in the Western Cape Government’s Directorate for Programme/Project Infrastructure Delivery, who shared insights into the work of the department and its commitment to taking action in addressing the infrastructure challenges facing the province. The programme was facilitated by Duane Peterson, our branch chair as well as Western Cape Branch Manager and Director at JG Afrika and concluded with an engaging Q&A session led by our CEO Chris Campbell, joined by Dr. Haripersad.