05 | Beyond Shelter

Part of my work here in South Sudan is dedicated to an exciting research project. In collaboration with the University of Juba and the Structural Xploration Lab (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne), we are developing an innovative design for a flood resilient shelter. 

The recurring displacement of people caused by armed conflict and floods has become a pattern in South Sudan. During the rainy season (April – September), some parts of this country become entirely inaccessible. 

Many communities keep getting affected by floods year after year, which puts them in a cycle of dependence on humanitarian aid. It seems reasonable to think of a more long-term solution. A regular distribution as a response to a shelter crisis includes one or two tarpaulins and some ropes. We are suggesting a bigger kit, including bamboo and braided rubber ropes. The design offers a resourceful and more sustainable alternative to the current implementation of shelter distributions. 

The driving ideas behind this shelter kit are, to keep it local, simple and sustainable. It is an attempt to break the cycle of dependence by not only providing the necessary materials for a shelter but also including construction training. 

The innovative shelter was developed by the Structural Xploration Lab. A 1:1 prototype was first tested in Switzerland. In Juba, some more testing was done with architecture students at the University, and later with people from our Emergency Response Team (see photos). 

It is designed according to the well-established humanitarian Sphere Standards. They offer a good technical reference for humanitarian responses. However, when a house becomes somebody's home, social factors have to be addressed. Our well-being is largely dependent on the extent to which we experience our lives with regard to our human dignity. So in addition to the material needs of a shelter, all of us need a place which provides a safe space, physically and mentally. 

The shelter kit consists of a number of long bamboo sticks, a big bundle of rubber ropes (made from car tires), and two big tarps. All materials can be bought in South Sudan, supporting the local economy. With those materials, one can decide between two types of shelter: An A-frame emergency shelter, which looks similar to a tent; or a hip roof with four equal sides. As the name already suggests, the emergency shelter is only to be used temporarily, providing basic protection from wind, rain, and sun. The roof construction is a medium to long-term solution, which requires a simple wall structure or poles as a foundation. 

The way we are currently looking to implement the distribution is through training trainers. By using this method we are responding to current needs, while simultaneously building capacity within the communities. 

The first testing in the field is planned to take place in early 2023. I am looking forward to sharing how it went.

Liebe Grüße aus Juba, Markus