Architect Omar Degan has announced the launch of the first Pan-African Architecture Biennale (PAB), scheduled for September 2026, in a bold move to reshape how the world defines sustainable architecture in Africa.
The Somali-Italian architect and curator revealed the vision during an interview with Louisiana Channel, where he challenged long-standing global narratives around climate-friendly design. According to Degan, sustainability has often been framed through a narrow, Eurocentric lens.
He argues that global standards frequently prioritize glass towers, sealed buildings, and high-tech materials. Yet, communities across Africa have practiced climate-responsive construction for centuries. They build with earth, local soil, and natural ventilation. They live in balance with their environment. And importantly, they generate little to no harmful emissions.
However, these indigenous methods rarely receive global recognition.
“At the same time,” he noted, “Africa contributes only about three to four percent of global emissions.” Still, the continent remains among the hardest hit by climate change. Floods, droughts, rising sea levels, and water scarcity continue to disrupt lives and economies across regions.
As a result, the architect believes Africa pays the price for decisions made elsewhere.
Through the Pan-African Architecture Biennale, Architect Omar Degan aims to change that narrative.
Rather than positioning Africa as a passive victim, the event will highlight the continent as a source of solutions. It will spotlight architects who design for real challenges, including rapid urbanisation, rural-to-city migration, housing shortages, and fragile coastal zones.
More importantly, the biennale will showcase how African innovation already addresses these issues using affordable, climate-smart, and culturally grounded methods.
He explained that the 2026 exhibition will feature architects from across the continent. Together, they will present projects that blend tradition with modern engineering. They will also demonstrate how African cities can grow without sacrificing environmental balance.
In his view, sustainability should not depend on expensive technology alone. Instead, it should reflect how people live, build, and coexist with nature.
By creating this platform, the Pan-African Architecture Biennale seeks to reposition African architecture on the global stage. It will also challenge investors, urban planners, and policymakers to rethink what truly qualifies as “green” development.
Ultimately, Degan believes the event will tell a more honest story about Africa.
Not one defined by deficit.
But one shaped by resilience, knowledge, and design intelligence.
As September 2026 approaches, the Pan-African Architecture Biennale is already gaining attention as a landmark moment for African design, climate leadership, and cultural confidence.
