Nio Far: new architectural test to complete training facilities

Winner of the 2021 call for projects, the Nio Far project, led by the eponymous association, has led to the creation of an eco-place in Boucotte-Diambering, Senegal. The partnership between the setec Foundation and the association was renewed in November 2022, enabling the funding of a final geo-concrete hut, the last of the training facilities.

This new construction unit consists of a reception building for the beneficiaries and trainers of the Maison de l’Environnement.

It is to be built using local bio-sourced materials, setting a new architectural test – still in earth and with as little iron as possible, but with a different visual structure and a single-slope roof. This latest addition to the eco-lieu completes the diversity of the architecture and adds to the book of possibilities for geo-concrete.

In addition, capacity-building training on the subject of iron-free geoconcrete construction is organised during construction activities. Former beneficiaries of the ‘Geoconcrete masonry’ session are invited to come and specialise in this method, which very few masons have mastered.

The aim of this latest geoconcrete project is to continue to promote earth construction in the area and to increasingly exploit the possibilities offered by alternative architecture. The methodology for this construction is still based on a ‘construction action plan’ that is founded on Nio Far’s ethical values: sustainable building with a low environmental performance index, choice of materials (local, traceability, transport), craftsmen/service providers (local, traditional know-how, transmission of knowledge) and fittings (re-use, re-purposing, rehabilitation).

Adramé Ndiaye, an engineer from setec Afrique, is again involved with the setec Foundation this year in monitoring the project. A visit to the site after a training session is planned, as well as regular discussions.

And since then?

The latest addition to the eco-lieu is currently being completed.

Adramé Ndiaye, a volunteer and representative of the setec Foundation on site, challenged a project to build a phytodepuration system (a natural process for filtering or depolluting wastewater using plants).

This was followed by a 2-day workshop on best practice in water treatment and eco-construction.

At the same time, the association is continuing to develop the site, in particular by organising training courses such as the one to be held in July 2023 on repairing mobile phones.