Background
This workshop is part of a wider initiative started in 2018, to introduce sustainable construction materials to an area whose environment has been greatly affected by the deforestation caused by the production of fired bricks. Based in Maji Moto, Tanzania, the project aims to bring together environmental awareness and community resilience.
The project
Within the scope of this initiative, the rural community market is a care infrastructure project that will serve two goals at once: meet the needs of the community and raise awareness on the use of CSEB.
On one side, women’s groups have argued for the need of having an hygienic, safe and shaded place where to sell their goods. Currently, women sell directly on the ground, often with their young children, and when the weather conditions actually allow it.
As Maji Moto is an agriculturalist Maasai village, having a place where women can safely and reliably sell products such as vegetables, fruits or else is key for women’s economic resilience as well as for their own and their families wellbeing.
The local government has already defined an area in the village centre where the market will be located. Two years ago, several women tentatively built several shops in that area, which quickly got destroyed by the damaging effect of the weather on the poor quality of materials and structure used.
On the other side, with the construction of this market, we also expect to make the most of the use of CSEB, provide further training and continue raising awareness for the local community. This project is a great opportunity to feature the different building possibilities allowed by CSEB bricks, in terms of structure, aesthetics and versatility (other local low-impact materials will also be considered for the construction).
KEY INFORMATION
Location: Maji Moto, Arusha & Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Northern Tanzania
Start dates: Dates to be confirmed (between mid July and mid September
Duration: Up to 8 weeks
Workshop fees: €1,050 (see page 12 to see what is included and excluded)
Project funding: €1,500
Open to: architecture, engineering and international development students, architects, engineers, young practitioners willing to make an impact, learn and live a vibrant adventure.
*Please note that this project will go ahead as planned, global guidance on international travel permitting.
