Osafa.org has just launched and will be a Wikipedia-like platform where the “source code” of construction projects, i.e.

  • floor plans,
  • building descriptions,
  • drafts/photos and
  • commercials calculations

are being shared under an open licence, ready to be reused or adapted, without licence fees.

We want to apply the success factors of Open Source Software to the intellectual wisdom of African architecture. Osafa is to be used by all stakeholders of construction projects in Africa, professionals and hobbyists, Africans and non-Africans, world changers and business people alike.

http://www.osafa.org/english/Home

Problem Description

Every year, tens of thousands of elementary schools, maternity wards and similar one-story buildings are constructed in Africa. Most of these projects are realised using a trusted 1950s template (concrete walls, corrugated iron roof…), which suits the people who fund such buildings, but not necessarily those who use and have to live with them. This lack of innovation means that there is a great room for improvement to build

  • cheaper
  • with better interior climate (very important in hot countries)
  • with increased local participation (=social impact)
  • aesthetically more genuine, more African

http://www.osafa.org/english/About_Osafa