Geotechnical engineering firm Mukona Group has acquired South African geotechnical investigations, piling and lateral support company Mega Pile to create a comprehensive geotechnical services provider for Southern Africa.

The combined group can deliver a range of turnkey solutions, from site investigations, drilling and lab testing to design, piling, lateral support and ground improvement techniques.

“Bringing together our expertise offers clients optimised, cost-effective foundation solutions for major infrastructure projects, including bridges, basements, renewable energy and urban developments,” says Mukona Group MD and founder Solly Phalanndwa.

The acquisition aligns with Mukona’s strategic goal to extend its regional footprint while upholding rigorous standards of quality and client service.

The Mukona Group and Mega Pile operate across South Africa and are expanding into Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This growth will strengthen the group’s ability to meet increasing infrastructure demands locally and abroad, says Mukona Group FD Wayne van Houten.

“Clients can expect consistent, high-quality service, enhanced by the combined resources and expertise. With four operational business units, namely Mukona Consulting Engineers, Mukona Geotechnics, Mukona In-Situ and Mega Pile, the group is well positioned to meet diverse project needs,” he adds.

Mega Pile, meanwhile, will maintain its brand and current leadership, with John Oliver continuing as COO to ensure operational continuity.

“Joining forces with the Mukona Group allows us to combine our strengths and deliver a more comprehensive service to clients and further strengthens our market presence and elevates Mega Pile to a Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment company.

“We are committed to maintaining our trademark quality, service delivery and client support while exploring new opportunities for innovation and growth together,” Oliver adds.

“Both companies will continue their work while collaborating more closely, which will enable knowledge sharing and new opportunities for professional growth,” says Phalanndwa.

Looking ahead, Mukona Group is mulling the development of a dedicated in-house laboratory for soil and material testing, completing the technical cycle internally to improve precision and efficiency.

“This acquisition sets the stage for Mukona Group and Mega Pile to provide geotechnical engineering across Southern Africa, thereby delivering trusted, integrated solutions within a growing infrastructure market,” he says.