Celebrating 45 years of engineering excellence

SCE Consulting Engineers recently marked its 45th anniversary with a special celebration alongside long-standing clients, colleagues and friends. The occasion was both a tribute to the firm’s extraordinary journey and a reaffirmation of its commitment to innovation, collaboration and excellence.

The company’s story began in 1967 when the late Henning Seelenbinder led the Namibian branch of the South African firm Rigby, Cronje and Levendis. Recognising the need for a broader skills base, he established an independent practice in 1980, embracing a multidisciplinary approach that combined civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineering.

In 1987, Herbert Lerch joined as a civil and structural engineer, followed by Urs Böhlke in 1994 as an electrical and electronic engineer. Their arrival strengthened the firm’s technical depth and expanded its reach.

The firm officially became Seelenbinder Consulting Engineers in 1997, building a reputation as one of Namibia’s leading engineering consultancies. Over the years, a succession of skilled partners and professionals has ensured both continuity and fresh energy.

Honouring two remarkable careers

The 45-year milestone also marked the retirement of two influential figures: Herbert Lerch and Urs Böhlke.

Herbert’s career is distinguished by leadership, technical excellence and attention to detail. His contribution to landmark infrastructure projects, including Namibian Breweries, Meatco, Erongo Desalination Plant (located in Wlotzkasbaken), NamPower’s Caprivi Link Converter Stations, the Anixas Diesel Power Station and the Cymot Retail Network, has left an enduring imprint on Namibia’s engineering landscape.

Urs’ journey is equally impressive. Trained in Germany and with early experience at Rössing Uranium Mine, he brought precision, innovation and mentorship to the firm. He played a central role in projects such as the national telecommunications infrastructure for Telecom Namibia, MTC and Paratus and major retail developments, including Wernhil Shopping Centre and The Grove Mall. His calm leadership and technical mastery earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Their retirement symbolises both the close of a significant chapter and the continuation of the values they helped instil in the company.

As Herbert and Urs step back, the firm looks ahead with confidence under the leadership of Elton Heyman, Henning Redecker, Ronald Geiger and Kobus Kruger. This leadership transition has been carefully prepared to ensure stability, preserve institutional knowledge and infuse the organisation with fresh perspectives. Although Herbert and Urs are stepping back to enjoy a well-earned retirement, they will remain available for guidance and support. Their wealth of knowledge and experience will continue to be a valuable resource, even as they take the time to enjoy the next chapter of their journey.

A rich portfolio of achievement

The breadth of the company’s work reflects its multidisciplinary strength, spanning major retail centres, converter stations, telecommunications infrastructure, processing plants, multistory office buildings, the renewable energy sector, as well as major bulk water transfer pump stations and pipelines. The firm has helped shape many of Namibia’s most recognisable spaces, as its portfolio includes the Von Bach–Windhoek and Swakopmund South bulk water transfer pump stations, Mutual Platz, Town Square Mall, the Hosea Kutako International Airport terminal upgrade and high-profile office buildings such as the ACME Corner.

SCE has played a crucial role in supporting renewable energy development and contributing to major studies for green hydrogen developments, wind farms and solar projects such as Omburu, Moses Mague ||Garoëb Khan and Sores |Gaib. The firm’s engineering expertise has extended into industrial processing plants, luxury lodges, hospitals, transport infrastructure and specialised energy and storage solutions.

This diversity of projects reflects not only technical capability but also a commitment to advancing Namibia’s development through practical, sustainable engineering solutions.

The 45th anniversary was a moment to reflect, express gratitude and look forward. The directors extended their sincere thanks to all clients, partners and colleagues who have contributed to the firm’s journey over the decades. With a new generation of leaders in place and a legacy of excellence as its foundation, the firm is poised for continued growth and innovation.

Madeleen Duvenhage