infrahub.africa

Background

In the semi-arid Dandaji region of Niger, the earthen structure of the local mosque was eroding due to water damage from seasonal downpours and neglect. The villagers in Dandaji wanted to demolish it and replace it with a modern, durable and easy-to-maintain concrete structure, but after learning about this problem, Nigerian architect Mariam Issoufou advocated for saving the old mosque. Having convinced the community of the existing mosque's importance, they agreed to adaptively reuse the derelict mosque as a library, while constructing a new mosque adjacent to it. Issoufou joined forces with Tehran- and Boston-based architect Yasaman Esmaili to design the Hikma Community Complex, creating a cultural and educational hub where secular and religious activities coexist peacefully. Inspired by the 9th-century Bayt al-Hikma (House of Wisdom) in Baghdad, the project aims to reintroduce the values of pursuing knowledge alongside religious practice, thereby addressing the need for educational resources in a region with a young population and low literacy rates.

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Approach

The architects employed a unique approach by juxtaposing the new structure with its predecessor, integrating traditional and modern building techniques and materials, and encouraging collaboration between traditional masons and the construction crew. The new mosque and its outbuildings are constructed from compressed earth blocks (CEB) instead of local clay, requiring less maintenance while providing the same thermal benefits. The restoration and repurposing of the derelict mosque into a library prompted the project team to invite the original masons to join the team and the original architect's former assistant to oversee the restoration of the walls and roof. Adobe-enhancing additives and erosion protection techniques are used to repair the structure, finishing the exteriors with a new plaster made of clay, shea butter, sand and laterite, which extends the replastering schedule from annually to once every 10 years. Utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional construction methods preserves cultural heritage and ensures cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability and social integration. The project was financed through a combination of donations and funds raised by the villagers with the support of community and religious organizations.

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Environmental Impact

Dandaji is located in the increasingly hot Sahel region south of the Sahara Desert, and cannot afford to ignore climate change. The complex has a reduced negative impact on the natural environment due to the sourcing of most materials within a 5 km radius, minimising transportation costs and associated emissions. The architects introduced Compressed Earth Bricks (CEB) made with laterite soil found on site, which have the advantage of requiring less maintenance than the regularly used adobe blocks and promote sustainable resource use. The designers utilized natural ventilation and the thermal mass of CEBs to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, eliminating the need for mechanical cooling and reducing energy consumption. New trees planted on the site and an underground rainwater tank for drip irrigation help to minimise water use, enhance local biodiversity and further reduce carbon emissions, which benefits the community and the environment.

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Success Factors

The architects' familiarity with the local culture and climate ensured an innovative blend of traditional and modern design and construction techniques that contextually respond to the community's challenges and needs. The collaboration and involvement of local artisans, masons and community members, as well as the project's focus on sustainability and cultural preservation, have been pivotal to its success.

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Evidence

The initiative has benefited the community by generating local jobs for masons and artisans, providing space for 1,000 people in the new mosque, and enhancing educational access through the library and educational facilities. In 2017, the Hikma Community Complex won a Gold LafargeHolcim award for Middle East Africa and a Global Silver LafargeHolcim award in 2018. The awards jury commended the project for its strategic emphasis on local craftsmanship, traditional building techniques, and in-situ materials, highlighting its innovative approach to sustainability by revisiting “time-honoured” materials and methods instead of relying on high-tech solutions.

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Evolution

The Dandaji community had initially considered demolishing and replacing the old mosque with a modern concrete structure. However, the architects strongly advocated for its restoration and reuse as a library, highlighting the historical and cultural value it would bring to the community. This significantly increased the scope of the original project.

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Challenges

The primary challenge lies in the cost, as architecture can be costly. However, by collaborating with local builders, artisans and blacksmiths, the architects facilitated skill transfer, empowering the community to manage minor adjustments independently. When budgets allow, Mariam Issoufou Architects deploys a team from their Niamey headquarters (about a 7-hour drive from Dandaji), to address the community’s architectural needs.

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