Supporting sustainable development in Africa through acoustic consulting

With a longstanding ambition to contribute to Africa’s future, Linda Kavishe is now helping communities across the continent through her work as an acoustic consultant, ensuring growth considers both people and the environment.

Graduate environmental scientist role leads to career in acoustic consulting

Growing up in Tanzania, where vast natural landscapes sit alongside development, Linda developed an early interest in how that growth affects people and the environment.

She said: “When I joined RSK Tanzania in 2019, I was struck by the company’s commitment to responsible working across the continent. Environmental thinking is built into project delivery.

“As a graduate environmental scientist, I supported RSK Acoustics during the COVID-19 pandemic by collecting data in Tanzania when movement was limited. That initial opportunity led to more work in acoustic data collection across Africa. With in-house training, I gradually took on monitoring, data processing and reporting.

“With RSK’s support, I was able to move from RSK Tanzania into a full-time role with RSK Acoustics.”

Measuring noise and vibration across Africa’s varied environments

Linda’s role involves assessing, measuring and reporting on noise and vibration across a range of projects. Much of her work focuses on noise surveys. This requires the use of sound-level meters to capture data and acoustic calibrators to ensure accuracy. Linda also uses specialist software to analyse results and model how sound behaves in different environments.

She said: “No two days are the same. Some days I’m on-site taking measurements, while others are spent analysing data, writing reports, carrying out modelling or preparing tenders.

“I enjoy the balance between fieldwork and technical analysis. Each project brings different challenges, and the work combines measurement, problem-solving and communication to help clients manage noise and improve acoustic conditions.”

Recently, Linda worked on an underwater soundscape study as part of a critical habitat assessment in the Pemba Channel (the strait separating the eastern coast of mainland Africa, along the central and northern Tanga region, from Pemba Island in the Indian Ocean). This involved installing passive acoustic monitoring devices, followed by data collection, analysis and reporting.

The study provided baseline data on noise levels in an area used by cetaceans, helping to track marine mammal movement and better understand how noise may influence their behaviour.

Linda added: “Another stand-out project was the Togo Road Scheme. Alongside baseline monitoring, we spoke directly with local communities about how they experience sound. That engagement was important to me and it was valuable to be able to prioritise it in the work.”

Navigating cultural and regulatory differences

Travel is one of the most demanding but rewarding aspects of Linda’s role. Working across different countries has exposed her to diverse landscapes, cultures and regulatory approaches. From mining sites to coastal towns in Zanzibar and infrastructure projects across West Africa, each location brings new challenges.

She said: “The relationships you build are a key part of the work. Collaborating with local practitioners, government bodies and communities helps broaden your perspective and leads to better outcomes.

“Logistics can be complex, as regulations vary and continue to evolve. Language also plays a role, both in communication and in how technical ideas are understood culturally. Learning to navigate these differences in a respectful and effective way is an ongoing process, and one I find genuinely engaging.”

The growing need for acoustic consultants across Africa

As development continues across Africa, the role of acoustic specialists is becoming increasingly important. Linda explained that across the continent, people often have a strong connection to their environment. The sounds of everyday life – from wildlife and weather to community activity – carry both cultural and practical meaning.

She added: “Poorly managed noise from infrastructure, industry and energy projects can affect trust, health and community wellbeing. Good acoustic practice helps protect communities, supports better project outcomes and contributes to more sustainable development.

“Acoustics remains under-represented in Africa relative to the pace of growth, creating both a need and an opportunity for skilled professionals. If you enjoy technical challenges, working in different environments and making a positive impact, it can be a very rewarding field.

“RSK Africa combines the reach of an international group with a strong understanding of the local context, and it places real value on people and their development.”

Looking ahead, Linda aims to develop her expertise in underwater acoustics and low-frequency noise and vibration. These areas are becoming more relevant, while guidance in the African context is still developing.

Through her work, Linda is helping to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of communities or the natural world but instead supports both.