Vernon Benele Mwamuka, born on January 12, 1955, at Bonda Mission Hospital in Zimbabwe, would go on to become a trailblazer in his field. He began his education at Vengere Primary School in Rusape and later attended St. Augustine’s Mission in Penhalonga for his secondary schooling. His academic brilliance was evident early on, as he […]

Hassan Fathy (Egyptian Arabic: حسن فتحي; March 23, 1900 – November 30, 1989) was a pioneering Egyptian architect renowned for his work in incorporating traditional building techniques and materials into modern architecture, particularly for the benefit of the rural poor. His innovative use of adobe and mud construction, alongside his commitment to sustainable and affordable

Alero Olympio, born in Ghana in 1959, stands as a pioneering figure in sustainable architecture, leaving an indelible mark through her innovative designs and steadfast commitment to ecological integrity. Her career exemplified a profound dedication to integrating architecture with social and environmental sustainability, challenging conventional practices by advocating for locally sourced materials and traditional knowledge

James Barnor, born in 1929 in Accra, Ghana, is a distinguished photographer whose career spans over six decades, capturing the essence of life in Ghana and the United Kingdom. A studio portraitist, photojournalist, and chronicler of Black lifestyle, his journey began in the bustling streets of Accra, where his keen eye for detail and passion

Professor Arc. John Owusu Addo’s name resonates across Ghana and beyond as a stalwart of architectural excellence, blending tradition with modernity in a symphony of design innovation. With a career spanning decades, Owusu Addo’s journey from humble beginnings to architectural eminence is a testament to perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As we

Professor Mariam Issoufou Kamara, an architect of extraordinary vision and dedication, exemplifies the fusion of innovation and community service in the realm of architecture. Born in Saint-Étienne, France, in April 1979, Kamara’s journey from a computer engineer to a distinguished architect reflects her unwavering commitment to shaping spaces that not only reflect cultural heritage but

In the world of modern African design, one name stands out as a beacon of innovation and cultural resonance: Jomo Tariku. An Ethiopian American artist and designer based in Springfield, Virginia, Tariku’s journey into the world of design was not merely a career choice but a profound exploration of his heritage and an expression of

In the 1960s, as the shadows of colonial French influence loomed over West Africa, Pierre Goudiaby Atepa, born in Ziguinchor, Senegal, in 1947, embarked on a transformative journey that would redefine the architectural landscape of the African continent. This period was marked by a pivotal struggle for identity, as newly independent West African nations grappled

In the vast expanse of Nigeria’s artistic and architectural narrative, few figures are as pivotal and influential as Demas Nwoko. Through his brushstrokes, designs, and buildings, Nwoko not only captured the essence of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also projected a vision for its future. This multifaceted genius has been a beacon of innovation, seamlessly

Once upon a time in the picturesque city of Lausanne, Switzerland, in the year 1962, a brilliant mind was born. His name was Simon Njami, and little did the world know that he would grow up to become a celebrated writer, independent curator, lecturer, art critic, and essayist. The Early Chapters: A Writer Emerges Simon