Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) was established in 1952 as the South African Association of Consulting Engineers (SAACE). It started as a voluntary association of independent consulting engineers in private practice. Over the years, CESA grew significantly in membership and influence. In 2008, the organisation transformed from SAACE to Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA).
CESA represents consulting engineering firms across South Africa and has been a key player in the country’s engineering sector for decades. It represents close to 600 member firms employing about 17,000 people. The organisation joined the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) in 1959 and has played a prominent role in both national and regional engineering matters.
A highlight of CESA’s history has been its commitment to promoting transformation within the sector and developing local capacity to address infrastructure challenges. The organisation has also received international recognition through FIDIC awards.
CESA celebrates engineering excellence through its annual Engineering Excellence Awards, which showcase world-class projects, innovation and the positive impact of consulting engineering. The association focuses on advocacy, transformation, procurement best practices, and support for its members in both the public and private sectors.
Overall, CESA has been a pillar of consulting engineering development and remains committed to improving South Africa’s infrastructure and engineering standards through its ongoing contribution to the profession and the built environment.