Modern Malian architecture rooted in ancient earth techniques

A building designed by Architerre, which combines traditional Malian earth-based techniques with modern designs. © Mariam Sy

In the heart of Bamako, architect Mariam Sy is leading a quiet revolution – one handful of earth at a time. Her vision merges Mali's ancient building wisdom with contemporary design, creating structures that seem to rise organically from the Sahelian soil.

"At 15, I told my parents I wanted to be an architect. They thought it was a good idea, and I had to leave my girls' school to attend a technical college in Bamako," Sy tells RFI.