The Role of Vernacular Construction Techniques and Materials in Developing Sustainable Building and Construction in Africa

Vernacular architecture embraces a multitude of constraints from areas where it belongs, one of the key features being local techniques and materials. Vernacular materials have a reduced impact on the environment relative to industrial materials and are an alternative for constructing sustainable buildings. The increased use of modern manufacturing and standardized materials has contributed to the homogenization of various construction techniques and has created a globalized architecture, which in many cases is out of context and is highly reliant on energy and other resources. A common issue in the building sector across African countries has been the reliance on knowledge of developed nations for their housing and construction needs. Applying this Knowledge in the use of materials and construction techniques directly with little regard for cultural, environmental and economic realities has led to a construction industry that is reliant on high consumption of energy and other resources on the continent. Studying the vernacular architecture where buildings were made traditionally with little technological advances is thus essential. This study explores firstly the sustainable building and construction concept and identifies goals for achieving sustainability in buildings and construction. Secondly, the vernacular architecture of Africa is explored with a focus on its construction techniques and materials. Finally, four buildings located in four regions of Africa are chosen as case studies based on their location in different climatic regions of Africa and their application of vernacular construction techniques and materials. These four buildings are analyzed and evaluated to ascertain the contributory potential of these construction techniques and materials to achieve sustainable buildings and construction on the continent. Keywords: Vernacular Architecture, Africa, Sustainable Building, Sustainable Construction, Construction Materials