Is Africa's skyscraper boom a cause for concern? The continent is witnessing a surge in skyscraper construction, with new towers rising in Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ivory Coast. But are these skyscrapers symbols of progress or mere vanity projects? This article delves into the debate, exploring the economic, cultural, and environmental implications of Africa's vertical urbanism.
A Rising Trend
The skyline of African cities is rapidly transforming, with the continent's first supertall building, the Iconic Tower in Cairo, Egypt, reaching 394 meters. The Tour F in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is set to surpass it, reaching 421 meters upon completion. These developments contrast sharply with the past, when the Carlton Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, was the only building to surpass the 200-meter mark.
The recent completions include the Mohammed VI Tower in Salé, Morocco, and the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Many more are scheduled for this year, indicating a growing trend. However, this rate of development is still modest compared to North America and Asia, sparking concerns.
Economic Growth or Vanity Projects?
Economist Jason M Barr suggests a link between African skyscraper construction and economic growth. He argues that iconic buildings can benefit African cities, but the economics must align. Statistics show that South Africa and Egypt, Africa's largest economies, account for most buildings over 30 storeys. Egypt, in particular, has a concentration of the tallest buildings under construction.
Barr explains that tall buildings are built when the economics are favorable, with most being offices, residential, or mixed-use. He believes these buildings can act as 'confidence boosters' and are not typically 'white elephants' built for status rather than need.
However, Nigerian architect Tosin Oshinowo expresses skepticism. She sees a divide between skyscrapers in Egypt and those in other African cities, questioning whether these developments are necessary. Africa's GDP is only about 3% of the global total, and it doesn't face the same land availability issues as Europe or the Middle East.
Cultural Identity and Local Context
Somalia-based architect Omar Degan shares concerns about the lack of consideration for local building traditions and lifestyle habits. He emphasizes the importance of unpacking the opportunities and risks of verticality, questioning whether global templates are appropriate for African contexts.
Degan advocates for skyscrapers that reflect African cultural identity, envisioning a Moroccan or Nigerian skyscraper as a symbol of nationhood. He believes there have been missed opportunities to use skyscrapers as a means of cultural expression.
Infrastructure Challenges
Oshinowo highlights Africa's steel shortage as a reason for the lessened relevance of skyscrapers. Imported steel is expensive, and local contractors lack the necessary construction expertise. Many skyscrapers under construction are being built by Chinese companies.
Electricity is another concern, with West and Sub-Saharan African cities experiencing regular power outages. The infrastructure required for tall buildings, such as reliable power, is not consistently available.
Necessity or Adaptation?
Belgian architect Hans Degraeuwe argues that high-rise building may be a necessity for African cities, given the constraints of urban sprawl. He suggests that prefabrication technologies could address construction expertise and utility shortages, with skyscrapers providing basic infrastructure for neighborhoods.
Degraeuwe is developing customisable, modular high-rises, aiming to roll them out across Africa. The success of this approach remains to be seen, but the high-rise trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Conclusion
Africa's skyscraper boom raises questions about economic growth, cultural identity, and environmental sustainability. While some argue it's a symbol of progress, others question its necessity and impact. The continent's ability to adapt vertical urbanism to its needs is a fascinating development, one that will shape its future skyline and urban landscape.
