Nio Far

The main aim is to build an alternative eco-location offering free training in sectors with high employment potential in the region, in particular sustainable construction techniques and solar energy, for young people who have dropped out of school.

These vocational training courses in promising sectors will open up new opportunities for the beneficiaries. In addition, the association plans to help them develop a career plan and discover entrepreneurship. They are all recognised by the Conseil Départemental.

The project is divided into several phases :

• Construction of the 120 m2 training area
• Installation of solar panels and water infrastructure
• Fitting out the container and bus to provide accommodation for future apprentices and trainers
• Manufacture of the geoconcrete bricks for the traditional huts
• Opening of the entire eco-location and launch of the training courses

Each phase of construction is the subject of a training camp to train skilled workers in sustainable geoconcrete construction techniques. In 2022, the construction of the eco-place will give rise to 4 training sites for 20 direct beneficiaries. The training courses will last a minimum of 1 month and will be given in small groups, so that the trainees can be supported as closely as possible and their career plans determined with them.

‘The whole project has been built around youth development and employability in the area”.

Find out more about their journey and the concept of the eco-place:

©Radio Kabisseu

Sustainable construction 

Sustainable construction is an integral part of Nio Far’s project and mission. In Senegal, most buildings are made of concrete, which is inexpensive but consumes a lot of energy. The building sector accounts for 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, and in Senegal, 75% of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions come from activities linked to this sector.

Building with geoconcrete (compressed earth) is a sustainable alternative that provides a direct response to a range of economic and environmental issues. Geoconcrete is more environmentally friendly because it contains only 10% cement and local red earth. It also provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. The bricks are compressed using a mould and dry in the sun for several days.

Progress of the project: what’s happening?

Following the announcement of the results of the 2021 call for projects, the Nio Far association teams were able to start work on the training area. At the end of February, a filtering point for the eco-location’s well was installed, which will supply the whole of Nio Far with drinking water. The solar panels were installed and 6 young people were trained by the local service provider.

In July 2022, the construction work was almost completely finished, with the exception of two small annexes. The structure is now equipped with a traditional well and an attached pump to supply the buildings with drinking water.

The official inauguration of the site is scheduled for 11 November 2022.