September 16, 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa – Knight Piésold Southern Africa is proud to announce that Mthokozisi Kevin Mthethwa has been named Graduate Engineer of the Year at the 2024 SANRAL SAICE National Awards, held in Johannesburg, South Africa on September 5, 2024. This prestigious award from the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) recognizes Mthethwa’s outstanding contributions to the field of geotechnical engineering.

A graduate of civil engineering with four years of experience, Mthethwa has made significant strides in his work on tailings storage facilities and specialized geotechnical investigations, including in-situ SCPTu, laboratory testing, and slope stability analysis. Reflecting on his achievement, Mthethwa said:

“I am deeply honoured to have received this award, and it is a testament to the unwavering support and guidance that I have received from my colleagues at Knight Piésold. I want to thank my mentors and the intermediate and senior engineers who have always been there to assist junior and graduate engineers like me. Their investment in our growth has been invaluable, and it is a privilege to learn from them every day. This award is not just mine—it is a reflection of the collective effort of the entire team.”

Dr. Vishal Haripersad, Managing Director of Knight Piésold Southern Africa, commented on the significance of this accolade:

"Receiving this esteemed title is a momentous achievement not only for Mthokozisi but for all our graduate engineers—the future leaders of Africa. His hard work, commitment to excellence, and passion for engineering are an inspiration to all of us. At Knight Piésold, we are proud to cultivate such talent and remain dedicated to empowering the next generation of engineers."

In addition to this personal achievement, Knight Piésold was also recognized for its work on the Kikagati Hydropower Project, receiving a high commendation in the International Project category. This 16 MW project, which was commissioned in December 2021, now provides 115 GWh of renewable electricity annually to Uganda and Tanzania. Knight Piésold played a key role in the design and construction supervision, ensuring that the project met its ambitious goals for sustainability and efficiency.

Constructed at a cost of US$87 million, the Kikagati Hydropower Project is situated on the Kagera River at the Uganda-Tanzania border. The project utilized innovative engineering solutions, including a redesigned mass concrete weir, to overcome significant construction challenges. Today, the plant generates reliable renewable energy, benefiting both nations and setting a new standard for cross-border infrastructure projects in East Africa.

Dr. Haripersad further emphasized the importance of this project:

"The Kikagati Hydropower Project demonstrates what is possible when international cooperation, innovation, and engineering excellence come together. We are proud to have played a pivotal role in delivering this project, which will continue to benefit communities across Uganda and Tanzania for years to come."

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mthokozisi and the entire team for these outstanding accomplishments, reinforcing Knight Piésold’s commitment to engineering excellence.”