Page 34 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 35
P. 34
The Environment
soup—a mixture of this boiled varnish—on is built incrementally, with each layer of
the plaster every day for three days after moistened earth compacted and left to
application. partially dry before the next layer is added.
This practice is deeply ingrained in local This allows the structure to solidify and
building methods, ensuring the plaster maintain stability over time.
maintains its integrity, is resistant to Final Finishing: Once the wall is complete, it
wear, and ages beautifully over time. By may be coated with a protective finish, such
incorporating such indigenous knowledge as a clay-based plaster or varnish, to shield
into mainstream construction, not only do it from weathering and provide an aesthetic
we ensure the survival of these valuable finish.
techniques, but we also actively support the
promotion of environmental sustainability Documenting Local Building Practices
and locally sourced, low-carbon materials.
However, despite the importance and
Atakpamé Construction: A Tradition potential of local techniques, much of this
Rooted in Sustainability knowledge is not documented or formally
Atakpamé construction, a traditional building integrated into modern construction
technique prevalent in parts of West Africa, standards. To preserve and scale up these
stands as a testament to the ingenuity and practices, it is crucial to undertake thorough
environmental adaptability of indigenous documentation efforts as highlighted by
construction methods. Named after the town the example of the Kikuyu thatched house,
of Atakpamé in Togo, this method involves including detailing material specifications,
creating walls from compacted layers of building processes, performance assessments,
earth and clay. Each layer is carefully built and construction challenges. Communities
and compressed, often by hand, to form can provide the expertise, and architects,
sturdy, durable structures without the need engineers, and urban planners can work
for additional materials like cement or together to preserve this invaluable
reinforcements. knowledge.
The Atakpamé method relies on a meticulous Documenting these practices would enable
layering process: more accurate and effective integration into
modern construction methods. It also ensures
Earth and Clay Preparation: Locally that the generation of builders, artisans, and
sourced earth, sometimes mixed with engineers have access to these materials
stabilizers like straw or dung, is prepared for and methods for future projects. Without
construction. These natural additives improve documentation, there’s a risk of losing not
bonding and strength. only the wisdom behind these practices but
also the potential benefits they can offer
Layer-by-Layer Construction: The wall
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