This project aims to address the urgent challenges facing Chamanculo C, an informal settlement in Maputo, Mozambique, home to over 150,000 residents. Neglected living conditions in such settlements, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the need for action.

Focused on enhancing public health and quality of life, we employ sustainable, affordable, and traditional strategies, treating the urban environment as a Complex Adaptive System (CAS) under the Integrated Modification Methodology (IMM). Our holistic approach targets issues like overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, sanitation, and low health culture.

We prioritize sustainability and circular economy principles, targeting urban systems such as mobility, energy, food, water, waste, and housing. Notably, our housing prototypes leverage traditional methods and materials for modular solutions tailored to the community's needs.

Our implementation includes diagnosis, development, and retrofitting phases, showing promising results in improving both physical conditions and public health. We aim to foster long-term resilience and well-being within the community.

Chamanculo C faces challenges like inadequate infrastructure and urban poverty. By addressing these while respecting the settlement's historical and cultural significance, we empower the community and align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Our initiative exemplifies a proactive approach to informal settlements, utilizing local knowledge, resources, and innovative design for lasting positive change.

Funded by the Polisocial Award 2020, with support from AICS Maputo, AICS Mozambique, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, AVSI, ASF Italia, and Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM) Maputo, Mozambique.