Millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to decent and affordable housing. Deforestation has led to scarcity of timber and straw in the region for traditional roof construction. Families spend what little money they have on imported and expensive timber and sheet metal to put a roof over their heads, further worsening the vicious circle of poverty in which they are trapped.

Through its "Earth Roofs in the Sahel" Program, the Nubian Vault Association is addressing this problem with a traditional, low-carbon technique using local skills and primarily earth, rocks and water as building materials. The organization supports the training of local builders, in order to create a sustainable and autonomous market for what as known as "Nubian vaults"

This project won the Momentum for Change award in 2014, under the Urban Poor pillar. Momentum for Change is an initiative spearheaded by the UN Climate Change secretariat to shine a light on the enormous groundswell of activities underway across the globe that are moving the world toward a highly resilient, low-carbon future. Momentum for Change recognizes innovative and transformative solutions that address both climate change and wider economic, social and environmental challenges.  The Urban Poor pillar recognizes climate action that improves the lives of impoverished people in urban communities. This focus area is implemented with the generous support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

To tell us more, we spoke to Cecila Rinaudo, the project’s Director of Development. Listen to the podcast below, and 'like' the Momentum for Change Facebook page for more videos like this. To stay connected with Momentum for Change, subscribe to the e-newsletter.