re-think makoko

Helwan University in Zamalek, Department of Architecture of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Cairo

Project idea

Makoko slums are ironically dubbed “the Venice of Africa”, where the oily waters running through the area provide little sustenance for the fishing community. It was said to be established in the 18th century as a fishing village, which later expanded when more people moved into the area Our re-think plan is to gradually convert makoko from a slum into a self- sustaining community and tourist attraction in 10 years

Project description

Makoko slums are ironically dubbed “the Venice of Africa”, where the oily waters running through the area provide little sustenance for the fishing community. It was said to be established in the 18th century as a fishing village, which later expanded when more people moved into the area. Although situated in Lagos, the largest city in Nigeria with a growing economy, the slum remains a disease-ridden and poverty-filled area. State authorities have already started efforts to chop down the stilt houses and clean up Lagos .it is considered to have a population of 85,000 inhabitants, but the estimates go up to 200,000. The real number is unknown because the police rarely go into the slum, which means that the area is actually autonomous. Our re-think plan is to gradually convert makoko from a slum into a self- sustaining community and tourist attraction in 10 years

Technical information

Makoko is a fishing community living on
water, our concept is inspired by the
intersection of many fishing nets, this
creates strong bonds between the
community while sharing transportation
,jobs and housing
Prototype design concept
- All prototypes are low cost housing
- All prototypes are elevated to be protected from sea level rising caused by floods and rainfall
-Prototypes are arranged in mini communities that helps in increasing the interaction between community and
their needs
-2 floor prototypes instead of one floor so it can host more residents

Co-authors

ezzeldine yehia