Grapevine

How wooden houses can transform Uganda's housing crisis

Wooden houses can position Uganda for a sustainable future by addressing the housing crisis through cost-effective, eco-friendly construction, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting responsible timber sourcing.

Modern wooden construction is revolutionising the housing market as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to steel and concrete. Not only does it drastically cut construction costs, but it also reduces environmental impact while offering the warmth and aesthetic charm that only natural materials can provide. This has convinced many engineers, architects, and impact investors to consider it a go-to resource to address the housing crises many Ugandans are grappling with, but in a more stylish, sustainable way.

Easy Housing, a real estate developer since 2020, has been leading this charge in Uganda, building homes in 120 days. The company sources its timber from Busoga Forestry Company, which is Forest Stewardship Council-certified, ensuring sustainability.

Before the wood is used, it goes through kiln drying, careful planning, and pressure treatment to keep termites and pests away. The company also skips the concrete jungle and instead uses recycled plastic to craft foundation blocks, lifting its lovely wooden floors by 35 to 80cm. This design promotes air and water flow underneath.

Challenges in the housing market