EAC architects meet to promote the region’s construction heritage
DAR ES SALAAM: IN recognition and promotion of the contribution of the construction sector to the national economy, architects from the East African Community (EAC) will meet in Zanzibar on July 10, 2025, to discuss and exchange experiences, knowledge, and strategies on how to develop the sector.
The meeting also aims to promote construction that respects culture, history, and modern development.
The President of the Architects Association of Tanzania (AAT), Engineer Meck T’chawi, made the announcement yesterday in Dar es Salaam during a press briefing.
He stated that there will be a continuous seminar for architects from all EAC member countries, scheduled to take place over two days, from July 10 to 11 this year.
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He explained that during the meeting, participants will discuss construction activities across Tanzania and the EAC, with a particular focus on historical buildings constructed by Germans, Arabs, and British colonialists.
“The main goal will be to examine buildings and construction activities from the year 1860 to 2025, whereby experts will look into the growth of construction technology and the evolution of historical buildings,” he said.
He added, “Construction techniques have changed over time, so we are also looking at how to preserve this architectural heritage. It’s important to understand that these buildings not only reflect architectural history but also social and cultural transformations in our region.”
He said the event will take place in Zanzibar, specifically in the historic city of Stone Town, where participants will discuss and analyze the best construction practices from ancient historical houses to modern structures.
He also mentioned that they will examine the challenges and successes in constructing environments that integrate diverse cultural elements.
The association’s Secretary, Naroka Njau, said they chose Stone Town as the seminar venue because of its rich history, which represents a world heritage site.
He added that this location is where different ethnicities and cultures have historically met and mingled.
“There, we witness the influence of Arabs, Africans, Asians, and even Europeans, a mix that makes it a unique place for dialogue on architecture, heritage preservation, and modern construction that aligns with historical settings,” said Njau.
He further stated, “For example, architectural elements such as windows, doors, and roofs directly reflect various cultural influences. These changes have shaped a new modern perspective on architectural design in our region, while also attempting to preserve our cultural identity.”
Meanwhile, AAT Executive Secretary, Attie Ally, said the seminar aims to provide a platform for education to professionals, students, and the general public and to offer opportunities for in-depth discussions, understanding, and collaboration in preserving and promoting this vital heritage.
“We believe that by doing so, we will contribute not only to the advancement of architecture but also to the strengthening of our African and East African identity as a whole,” Attie
