Objectives

The overall aim of the project is to improve the quality of the adobe houses built in the camps,

  • by applying improved construction techniques, based on available tools and resources,
  • training construction professionals in this knowledge, and
  • by disseminating them widely to local communities, thereby reducing their vulnerability to natural hazards.

In 2007, following the floods which caused the destruction of a large number of houses and public infrastructures in the Saharawi camps, OXFAM-Solidarité initiated a program to help the Saharawi population gain access to housing better able to withstand this type of natural disaster. This project, entitled "Improving housing and preventing natural disasters", is part of a comprehensive program set up by OXFAM-Solidarité in the Saharan camps, with technical and methodological support from CRAterre.

Results

The project was set up in 2007 and includes :

  • the development of innovative architectural solutions,
  • development of teaching materials adapted to local contexts,
  • the construction of showcase buildings,
  • training craftsmen and managers,
  • raising awareness among target audiences (donors, local authorities, construction sector players, the general public).

The project resulted in the following achievements:

  • Teaching materials have been developed and made available to local partners,
  • 11 demonstration buildings have been built,
  • 100 craftsmen were trained,
  • Around 30% of the camp population has been made aware of the problems of living in high-risk areas and the architectural solutions available to reduce risks,
  • Over 80 local duplications have been proposed.

Related achievements

  • Comprehensive teaching kit on earthen construction in the Sahrawi camps (translated into Arabic)
  • Impact study of project results
  • Verification of indicators for achieving project results

Partners

CRAterre, ECHO, OXFAM Solidarité (Belgium), Sahrawi managers and technicians