Meet Muhenje, Experienced electrical engineer

Experienced electrical engineer, Muhenje, joined the Lithon ranks in August 2021. We recently had a chance to sit down with him and find out what he loves most about his job and working at Lithon.

Why did you choose to become an electrical engineer?

I was attracted to electrical work from a very young age. There was an electrical contractor in my hometown of Opuwo, called Peter, who sparked my interest in all things electrical as a child. He was (and still is) a real expert, and had a big influence on me deciding to study electrical engineering by the way he went about his electrical work.

What does a typical day in your role as an electrical engineer look like?

I’m currently involved in consulting work where we carry out design, documentation, and  supervision for electrical projects for buildings or bulk services. I work on the whole electrical setup. At Lithon, we do a lot of electrical feasibility studies for existing and new buildings, and also bulk electrical services.

What do you love most about being an electrical engineer?

Access to electricity is a big need and can make a positive difference in people’s lives. I’m grateful to be a part of making this a reality for people every day.

How do you think engineering can contribute to building a better future for all?

Developed countries have got there through engineering and electrical engineering is a part of that. Electricity helps economies grow and countries develop, and in so doing brings about positive changes to societies. Renewable energy (wind, solar, and so on) can also assist with a greener future for all.

What do you love most about working at Lithon?

There’s a real family vibe here. Feeling connected and accepted by everyone helps me to be more useful and productive.

What was your favourite project to work on to date, and why?

During my internship, I worked at Navachab Gold Mine which was great because I could put all the theory I had learned into practice.

A particular favourite project (before Lithon) was the Kunene Regional Offices in my hometown of Opuwo, with my previous employer, JEC cc. My friends and family back home got to see the kind of work I do and I even bumped into the electrical contractor I had admired as a child, while working on that project!

At Lithon, I’ve been involved in some surveys and electrification projects in rural areas, in collaboration with Nam Power. This work has helped me to see the importance of electricity more closely, by working with real people on the ground. 

Who has been your greatest inspiration (both in your personal life or your career)?

Without a doubt, my parents. They have always been there and have been very supportive in my journey.

What does success look like for you?

Success means that I am able to help people because of the work that I do, and also be an inspiration to others. Even if I fall short in life, I’d like that to inspire others to carry on despite the setbacks.

What is a personal goal you’d like to achieve this year?

This year I want to focus on my health and creating a positive work/life balance. 

What do you get up to while you’re not working?

I’m very interested in history, specifically Namibia, and I’m currently reading a book titled  ‘Samuel Maharero’ by Gerhard Pool. I love watching and also playing football in my free time. My favourite international football teams are Kaizer Chiefs and Liverpool, and local team is African Stars.