Materials and Constructibility: Questions of Availability, Affordability, and Appropriateness

Traditional homes in both Uganda and South Sudan are constructed primarily out of natural, local resources. In South Sudan, for example, approximately 90% of homes are grass thatched mud huts. Materiality and construction methods are arguably the most significant aspect of the challenge to provide homes to refugees fleeing to Uganda refer to. Considerations of price, availability, ease of construction, and appropriateness must be asked. The solution should take into consideration the social and cultural factors of both populations.  However, it must also consider design and construction by the UNHCR creating an even tougher challenge. This study aims to explore the vernacular architectures of both South Sudan and rural Uganda in comparison to the specifications for refugee resettlements provided by UNHCR via the Sphere Handbook. It will also evaluate the materials used in these traditional designs in respect to availability and price.

The vernacular homes of South Sudan and rural Uganda have many similarities. For example, the primary material used for walls is mud or brick. Local mud bricks that are air dried are the most economical but may not be the most durable. Clay, crushed stone, portland cement, and concrete can be locally produced and are at a high availability and low cost. Rammed earth is also a very feasible option. This construction type consists of walls made from moist, sandy soil, or stabilized soil, which is tamped into form work. Walls should be a minimum of 12 inches thick. The soil should contain about 30% clay and 70% sand. These standards align with the UNHCR standards in durability. Conversely, the UNHCR standards states that in hot climates, the walls should not be made of thermal mass. They should also minimize the infiltration of direct sunlight, and maximize ventilation. Therefore, a method of providing ventilation through these massive walls, and also insulation from major heat gain would be necessary. Other materials used to construct walls include wood. Nevertheless, the demand on local tree supplies is high creating scarcity in supply. This should be considered in design endeavors to reduce the depletion of the countries forests.

Roofs in both cultures tend to be very high, which allows for heat to rise out through the top. Roofs are sloped and conical in South Sudan, but may be conical or rectangular in rural Uganda. The primary roofing material is thatched straw. However, in Uganda many families have gained access to tin for roofing. Roof frames tend to be made out of iron, which is locally made. Some homes use imported water proofing membranes or recycled plastic to weatherize their homes. This can be expensive but helps immensely during the wet season of Uganda’s tropical climate.

A vernacular response to the hot climate of Uganda is the shaded areas on the exterior of homes. In both cultures, cooking is done in front of the house or in an unattached space. UNHCR standards call for these shaded exterior spaces. Also per the UNHCR standards, interiors should include privacy barriers and also storage for belongings.

This research raises more questions that include: How can design at minimal cost, improve the living conditions and livelihood of new occupants, while ensuring their comfort and respect of cultures? Also, what materials can be sustainably sourced at minimal cost while serving this improved quality of construction?