Francis Kere: Africa’s sustainable architect conquering new continents

Imagine this: a small, dusty village in Burkina Faso, nestled between the Sahel and the Sudanese savannah. This is where Francis Kéré, now one of Africa’s most renowned architects, spent his childhood. Today, his designs are transforming not just his homeland, but also cities across the globe, including our very own Valletta. So, how did a boy from Gando become a sustainable architecture pioneer, and what can Malta learn from his work?

Kéré’s journey began in Gando, where he witnessed firsthand the power of architecture to improve lives. His parents were farmers, and their home was a simple mud-brick structure. Yet, it was a place of warmth and community, a stark contrast to the sterile, impersonal buildings he encountered while studying in Germany. This led him to believe that architecture should serve people, not just impress them.

Kéré’s break came when he designed a primary school in Gando using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques. The school was a hit, not just for its aesthetic appeal, but because it was built with the community, for the community. This marked the beginning of Kéré’s unique approach to architecture, one that is deeply rooted in sustainability and social responsibility.

Word spread about Kéré’s work, and soon, he was invited to design projects across Africa and beyond. His designs are as diverse as they are innovative – from the Serpentine Pavilion in London to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. Yet, they all share a common thread: a commitment to sustainability and a deep respect for local culture and materials.

Kéré’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious AIA Gold Medal in 2021. But for him, the true measure of success is not in awards, but in the lives he touches. As he puts it, “Architecture is not about creating something new. It’s about understanding what’s already there and making it better.”

Malta is the latest stop on Kéré’s global journey. In 2015, he was commissioned to redesign the City Gate in Valletta, a project that has transformed the city’s entrance. Kéré’s design is a far cry from the heavy, fortress-like gates that once stood there. Instead, it’s a light, airy structure that seems to welcome visitors with open arms.

The project is a testament to Kéré’s belief in the power of architecture to shape public spaces. The new City Gate is not just a gateway to Valletta, but a gathering place, a meeting point, a symbol of the city’s vibrant, multicultural identity. It’s a reminder that architecture, at its best, is not just about building structures, but about building communities.

Kéré’s work in Malta is not just about aesthetics, though. It’s also about sustainability. The City Gate project uses locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, just like Kéré’s work in Burkina Faso. It’s a reminder that sustainability is not just about using green materials, but about understanding and respecting the unique context of each place.

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