Breaking new ground for sustainable architecture in Central Africa

At the beginning of the construction work, the architects realized that local workers did not have the necessary skillsets to carry out the project. The project team decided to invest in increasing local capacity, and now employs more than 40 local workers newly trained in innovative and modern construction techniques, as well as requisites like project management, safety, administration and accounting, and handling of industrial machinery. In addition, the project set up an exchange program with the local School of Public Works, giving dozens of students on-the-job training and exposure to modern construction.

“The project has taken longer than expected, mainly because we found that the local workforce was not qualified in the necessary techniques, use of tools or site management to meet our standards,” says Ducenne. “Particularly, it was hard to find good team leaders, but we were committed to create local employment, so we did not want to hire expatriates.”

To create even more jobs, the construction team opted for a labor-intensive approach. For example, they chose to do manual excavation over using machinery. Both options were equally expensive, but this allowed dozens of people to work for several months – an important consideration in a region where formal employment opportunities are limited.

   One of the challenges of the project was sourcing high-quality local materials. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

   Workers received training in more than a dozen construction and management skills. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

   The construction used sand from the surrounding area. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

   The building's roof is designed to increase natural air circulation. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

Belgian architecture firm Accarain-Bouillot was tapped for the building’s design, and opted for aesthetic simplicity, so as to require minimal maintenance – and energy. It does not have an elevator or air conditioning; instead, the architects opted for a sunshade system to avoid direct sunlight, coupled with a ventilation system that circulates the air. Walls are mostly made of raw, unpolished earthen bricks, which are more insulating than fired bricks or concrete blocks. “In general, the building will have a much lower footprint than other similarly-sized buildings in Central Africa,” says Ducenne.

   CIFOR's team inspects the nearly-finished building. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

   The building will be part of the UNIKIS Faculty of Sciences building. CIFOR Photo/Axel Fassio

“Part of our sustainability plan is to ensure that this building remains functional for as long as possible, and that it continues to benefit Congolese students in the years to come,” says Ducenne.

The Faculty of Sciences offers a bachelor’s degree in the sciences as well as master’s and doctorate programs in sustainable forest management supported by FORETS. But more broadly than that, as one of the DRC’s top universities, UNIKIS is in need of modern infrastructure – and in a position to lead the way in this architectural field. This project is a chance to do just that. “The authorities of UNIKIS, one of our most important partners, have been very involved since the beginning of the construction project. They are very motivated and proud of the new building, and look forward to put it in use for the benefit of their students,” concludes Ducenne.