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How has African architecture been shaped by environmental factors?

Lizabeth Aldwick

African architecture has been shaped by various environmental factors over the centuries. From the arid deserts to the humid rainforests, African architects have had to contend with diverse climatic conditions in their quest for sustainable, livable structures. In this article, we shall delve into some of the ways in which the continent's physical and natural surroundings have influenced the art and science of African architecture.

Firstly, African architecture has been heavily influenced by the availability of local building materials. Since most African societies were agrarian, they had to construct buildings using locally-sourced materials such as wood, mud, and thatch. This led to the development of several building techniques, each suited to a particular type of environment. For instance, in the Sahel region, where rainfall is minimal, people built their houses using mud bricks, which retained heat during the cold nights. In contrast, in the tropical rainforests, where rainfall is abundant, people constructed dwellings using woven bamboo and palm leaves, which are resistant to rot and provide good ventilation.

Secondly, African architecture has been shaped by the need for protection against extreme weather conditions. In the Sahel region, where the sun's intensity is high, people built their houses close together to form compact living spaces that were shielded from the sun. They also dug wells to provide water for irrigation and drinking. In the coastal areas, where the threat of hurricanes and storms is high, people built houses with steeply pitched roofs and used palm-frond thatch to increase durability and provide insulation against the wind.

Additionally, African architecture has been influenced by cultural and religious practices. Each ethnic group has developed unique architectural styles that reflect their cultural and spiritual beliefs. For instance, the Dogon people of Mali built houses with flat-roofed mud walls, which are painted with geometric patterns and symbols that represent their cosmology. Similarly, the Swahili people in East Africa built houses with wooden verandas, which were used as social spaces for hosting guests and conducting business.

Lastly, African architecture has been shaped by Western colonialism and globalization. Since the arrival of Europeans in the continent, new architectural styles and building materials have been introduced, supplanting traditional practices. For instance, modern skyscrapers made of glass and steel now stand alongside ancient monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. This blending of styles has created a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary architectural designs that has become synonymous with African urban landscapes.

In conclusion, it is clear that African architecture has been shaped by a multiplicity of environmental factors over the centuries. From the availability of local building materials to protection against extreme weather conditions, cultural and religious practices to colonialism and globalization, the continent's architects have had to adapt to diverse conditions in their quest for sustainable and livable structures. This rich and varied architectural heritage is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of African societies and continues to inspire architects the world over.