How this new construction technology can help deliver affordable housing in Rwanda

The global affordable housing crisis is a pressing issue that requires creative solutions, especially for less wealthy nations like Rwanda. According to the Rwanda Housing Authority, affordable housing is defined as homes priced between $15,000 and $35,000. However, these prices are still not within reach for many Rwandans. To address this challenge, Affordable Human Needs, an international company, has introduced a groundbreaking construction technology known as Earthbag Technology to the Rwandan housing market. James Ngarambe, the Country Director for Affordable Human Needs in Rwanda, recently appeared on CNBC Africa to discuss how this innovative construction method is transforming the landscape of affordable housing in the country. Earthbag Technology relies on the use of polyethylene bags and soil sourced directly from the construction site, eliminating the need for traditional materials like bricks, cement, and sand. This cost-effective approach significantly reduces the overall expenses related to building construction, making homeownership more accessible to a wider population. Ngarambe emphasized that the durability of Earthbag houses is remarkable, with an estimated lifespan of up to 500 years. Despite initial skepticism about the strength of soil-based construction, extensive testing has demonstrated that Earthbag structures are not only robust but also resistant to various natural disasters. This technology has been successfully implemented in other regions, including California and Nepal, showcasing its adaptability and reliability in diverse environmental conditions. Ngarambe highlighted the ease of learning and implementing Earthbag Technology, emphasizing that local communities can be trained to construct their own homes without the need for specialized professionals. Additionally, the cost of setting up a three-bedroom Earthbag house averages around $6,000, a fraction of the price of traditional housing construction methods. This affordability is crucial for Rwanda and other African nations where a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. Beyond providing basic shelter, Earthbag houses are designed to include essential amenities such as water and power connections, with the option to install solar power systems for sustainable energy solutions. Ngarambe stressed the importance of these additional services in enhancing the quality of life for homeowners and making the investment in Earthbag construction truly worthwhile. The innovative nature of Earthbag Technology represents a promising shift in the affordable housing sector, offering a viable solution to address the housing needs of underserved communities while promoting self-sufficiency and economic empowerment. As Affordable Human Needs continues to champion this transformative approach to construction, the prospects for affordable and sustainable housing in Rwanda are brighter than ever.