“There is room for more engineers in the world”

Image Screen shot from Ingenjören, March 5, 2024. Sveriges Ingenjörer

Christian Naccache, a longstanding member of Engineers Without Borders Sweden, has found his calling in the complex yet rewarding field of aid work. He currently serves as an officer at the Swedish Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique. As he reflects on the three years since completing his trainee program, the story of his career path is a testament to the impact that engineers can have on global challenges.

In a 2021 interview with Ingenjören, Engineers of Sweden’s member magazine, Naccache shared his journey from finishing his trainee program, securing a position at Sida, and awaiting an embassy assignment overseas. His first posting came in September of that year, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, at the embassy in Rwanda.

Currently, Naccache serves as an officer at the embassy in Maputo, Mozambique. He manages the climate and environment portfolio and has recently taken on the energy portfolio as well. His role is crucial in selecting and overseeing projects that address Mozambique’s significant challenges, such as vulnerability to climate change and threats to biodiversity due to resource extraction.

Naccache’s work spans a variety of projects aimed at improving energy supply, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable construction practices. This includes initiatives to enhance resilience in rural environments and protect national parks from poaching. His engineering background has been invaluable in this context, enabling him to analyze problems and make quick, on-the-spot calculations during field visits. This technical acumen is essential for grasping the nuances of issues like emission trading and contributing to the formulation of new legislation in Mozambique.

Reflecting on the complexity of aid work, Naccache has grown to appreciate the intricate balancing act of coordinating projects, navigating bureaucracy, and working with diverse partners and stakeholders. He enjoys the multifaceted nature of his job, from engaging in technical analysis to participating in high-level discussions and seeing firsthand the impact of the projects he supports.

Formally employed by Sida and stationed at the embassy on loan, Naccache’s journey underscores the unique opportunities available to engineers in the aid sector. This spring, he will welcome an engineering intern, highlighting the rare yet valuable presence of engineers in embassy internships. Naccache advocates for more engineers to explore the possibilities within aid work, emphasizing the significant role they can play in making a tangible difference in the world.

As Sida reopens applications for its trainee program, the call for more engineers like Naccache is clear. The program offers a pathway to meaningful work in aid, providing training, experience, and the chance to contribute to global efforts in climate, environment, and beyond. With applications open until March 25, the opportunity to join this impactful field awaits those ready to make a difference.

“There is room for more engineers in the world”, and the journey of Christian Naccache is a shining example of the impact they can have.