Establishment of a sustainability center with adobe construction in the community of Davié, Togo

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The establishment of a sustainability center with adobe construction in the community of Davié, Togo, marks an important step in the sustainable development of West Africa. The project, initiated by a volunteer team of students from TU Wien and local partners, is supported by organizations such as TU Wien, Engineers Without Borders Austria, and Knowledge for Development without Borders

Goals and Vision

The center aims to provide young people in Togo and surrounding regions access to high-quality education and modern technology. The focus is not only on knowledge transfer but also on establishing climate-friendly construction using local resources such as adobe. The building will serve as a training center, practical facility, and venue for international research exchange

Architecture and Construction Method

The use of compressed adobe bricks is the heart of the project. Adobe is a sustainable building material: locally available, cost-effective, and positively impacts indoor climate. Compared to cement and corrugated iron structures, adobe construction offers a significantly lower CO₂ footprint and a more pleasant living environment. By further developing and modernizing traditional techniques, adobe is elevated from being seen as the “material of the poor” to a model of modern, sustainable architecture

Education and Social Impact

The sustainability center emphasizes on-site education for young people. Participants are trained in modern adobe construction techniques, enabling them to independently manage building projects and eventually start their own construction businesses. This approach strengthens the regional economy, creates jobs, and preserves as well as modernizes cultural heritage

Innovative Approach and International Role Model

By combining international know-how with local expertise, a model project with exemplary character is emerging in Davié. The involvement of volunteers from Austria, the EU, and other countries aims to foster intercultural exchange and sustainable development. Positive feedback from the community of Davié and local partners highlights that the sustainability center is seen not only as an educational institution but also as a symbol of progress, cultural identity, and environmental awareness

In Summary

This project exemplifies resource-conserving building and sustainable development in Africa. The center in Davié shows how traditional building methods, when combined with modern technology, can foster social, economic, and ecological progress

Information & Contact

More information can be found at:
Why is more voluntary and honorary engagement at TU Wien so important?
knowledgefordevelopmentwithoutborders.org/warum-engagement-an-der-tu-wien

Contact:
Clara Oppolzer
PR-Management
Email: clara.oppolzer@iog-austria.at
Phone: +4369910330485

knowledgefordevelopmentwithoutborders.org/empowering 
enquiries@knowledgefordevelopmentwithoutborders.org
Join Us in Empowering Minds, Transforming Communities @KFDWB