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14Trees pioneers 3D printing technology in Africa for affordable housing and schools

These projects will sustain skilled job creation by hiring and developing local experts from 3D machine operators. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

14Trees, a joint venture between LafargeHolcim and CDC Group, the UK’s public impact investor, is deploying 3D printing technology on a scale to build affordable low-carbon housing and schools in Africa, starting in Malawi

With its record speed of construction and optimised material use, this technology reduces the carbon footprint for building new homes by up to 70%. Pioneering this technology in schools for the first time, 14Trees aims to address the country’s chronic lack of infrastructure while creating skilled local jobs.

Miljan Gutovic, region head Middle East Africa and LafargeHolcim executive committee member, said, “I am very excited about the work of our joint venture 14Trees, innovating in 3D printing technology to accelerate affordable and sustainable building, from homes to schools. This is a great example of our commitment to build for people and the planet. Starting in Malawi, we will deploy this technology across the broader region with projects already in the pipeline in Kenya and Zimbabwe.” 

Tenbite Ermias, managing director, Africa, at CDC, said, “The rollout of 14Trees’ world-class, cutting-edge technology is going to have a tremendous developmental impact on Malawi and the wider region. It is a wonderful example of how we are investing in businesses that can support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.”

Using proprietary LafargeHolcim ink, this innovative 3D printing process will significantly reduce the time and cost of building housing and schools in Malawi. UNICEF estimates a shortage of 36,000 classrooms in Malawi that would take 70 years to build using conventional methods. According to 14Trees, in just ten years, this infrastructure gap could be bridged through 3D printing.

In partnership with a number of NGOs, 14Trees is committed to addressing this chronic shortage on a scale, starting with the families and communities most in need.

These projects will sustain skilled job creation by hiring and developing local experts from 3D machine operators to material specialists working hand in hand with local builders for carpentry, roofing, and painting.

The walls of 14Trees’ first prototype house were built in Lilongwe in just 12 hours, compared to almost four days using conventional methods. The walls of its first school, built in Salima, were printed in just 18 hours, as opposed to several days.

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