African Architecture Matters x Nieuwe Instituut

Through a number of case studies, discover how rising sea levels especially affect the culture and economy of communities living and working on islands. As part of Water cities Rotterdam, research and consultancy platform African Architecture Matters addresses the specific vulnerability of island communities in Africa and elsewhere, and the urgency they experience in translating their own local situations into a resilient and agile future.

The combination of rapid urbanisation and rising water is a global problem, but in different parts of the world the most diverse, distinctly local design solutions are being devised. A sustainable, inclusive, and context- and culture-sensitive approach to building values such as local knowledge and experience are a prerequisite for innovation. Based on case studies, a panel discussion and a workshop, join us to explore how island communities can be a special example for urban and rural development with their natural geographical demarcation and necessary self-sufficiency. What can we learn from the way spatial issues are tackled in island life?

In an interdisciplinary programme, the situation on the island of Zanzibar (off the coast of Tanzania) is contrasted with two islands in other parts of the world. How do islanders in these places relate to the nature – the water – around them and to the mainland, and what does this mean for their economy, culture and urban development? How do they each deal with the disruptive impact of tourism, habitat degradation and other challenges?

Read more about the non-profit consultancy on African Architecture Matters' website.

For the exhibition Water Cities Rotterdam by Kunlé Adeyemi, Nieuwe Instituut organises an extensive public programme with activities linked to themes explored in the exhibition and on the floating pavilions in the ponds around the institute, from Sunday morning yoga to documentaries, and from talk shows to live radio.