In 2020, an estimated 6.6 million poor Ghanaians needed affordable, sustainable infrastructure and community development. Hive Earth’s community development in Ghana has become a model in the construction industry and beyond, hosting workshops and blogging about eco-friendly construction techniques.

Poverty in Ghana

Ghana saw notable poverty reduction between 1991 and 2012 but has faced stagnation since then. In recent years, slow economic growth and high inflation have driven up poverty rates. Additionally, there are increased disparities across different demographics and regions.

According to an interview with Hive Earth’s co-founder Joelle Eyeson, there is a demand for low-cost building methods to increase access to housing and other resources among people in poverty. This is how Hive Earth’s community development in Ghana comes into play.

How Hive Earth is Supporting Ghana’s Poor

As Eyeson explained, Hive Earth supports Ghana’s poor by “actively engaging with communities.” This engagement consists of training programs teaching self-sufficiency regarding building and maintaining homes. Eyeson emphasized that the objective of Hive Earth’s community development in Ghana is to “create sustainable solutions that uplift communities and break the cycle of poverty.” Throughout the past year, Eyeson explained that this work has consisted of large-scale community projects such as constructing a family center in central Ghana.

Moreover, Eyeson advocates for Hive Earth’s approach to sustainable and affordable housing as a vital strategy to mitigate the housing crisis and support impoverished communities. However, she underscores the importance of a comprehensive strategy, highlighting that the full benefits of eco-friendly and cost-effective construction materials can only be realized when complemented by targeted political and educational efforts.

In addition, Eyeson is focused on expanding the reach and impact of Rammed Earth construction, anticipating a growth in demand. She envisions establishing more Rammed Earth companies across Africa, incorporating training programs and partnerships into Hive Earth’s business model to foster sustainable building practices and knowledge sharing.

Similar Initiatives

Hive Earth’s community development in Ghana is not the only instance where innovative methods and materials are being used to make housing and other community resources more accessible for impoverished people. Another up-and-coming unique technique to make housing more affordable is 3D printing homes.

Furthermore, companies like Tvasta Manufacturing Solutions in India, in collaboration with nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity have successfully 3D printed homes. These homes are 30% cheaper and can be built in five days or less.

Housing and Poverty Solutions

Eyeson encourages individuals passionate about reducing poverty and improving housing access to consider internships, volunteering or partnering with local projects and organizations. She highlights the Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF) as a key resource for those in the United States (U.S.) interested in making a difference in this field.

In addition, SAHF operates as a collaborative network involving 12 organizations dedicated to enhancing access to affordable and sustainable housing. Spanning the nation, alongside its advocacy efforts, SAHF serves as a key resource for individuals seeking to contribute to this cause.

Furthermore, Eyeson emphasizes the value of further education, whether formal or community-based, for deepening engagement in sustainable housing. She finds immense satisfaction in changing perceptions about natural building materials traditionally linked to poverty. Eyeson’s work with Hive Earth demonstrates the significance and value of building with Earth, challenging and transforming people’s associations with mud and similar materials.

– Madison Paulus
Photo: Unsplash