We are a community
We're engineers with a vision, and we want to improve the lives of
people through thoughtful architecture.
We aim to construct in a way that is harmonious with the environment, bringing together three fundamentals; environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
About Phioneers
Phioneers is a new company based in London, United Kingdom, that aims to provide a low-cost, eco-friendly housing solution for Sub-Saharan Africa. Our mission is to address the housing shortage in the region while promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for local communities. Our unique approach to affordable housing sets us apart from traditional construction methods.
By leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable materials, we are able to offer cost-effective housing solutions that are both environmentally friendly and durable. Phioneers' housing units are designed to be energy-efficient, utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar power and rainwater harvesting systems. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also lowers utility costs for residents, making our housing solution more affordable in the long run.
About Phioneers
In addition to the environmental benefits, our housing units are designed with the specific needs of Sub-Saharan Africa in mind. We prioritize safety, comfort, and functionality, ensuring that our homes meet the unique challenges and cultural preferences of the region.
Phioneers is committed to working closely with local communities, governments, and NGOs to ensure that our housing projects are tailored to the specific needs of each area. By collaborating with local stakeholders, we can create sustainable and inclusive communities that foster economic growth and social development. Through our innovative approach, Phioneers aims to make a significant impact on the housing crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing affordable, eco-friendly homes that improve the lives of individuals and communities.
Executive Summary
The lack of affordable, resilient and sustainable housing in Sub-Saharan Africa poses a significant challenge.
Existing housing options are often expensive and environmentally unsustainable. This calls for an innovative solution that provides low-cost, eco-friendly housing to address the pressing need for decent and affordable shelter in the region.
-
​Phioneers aims to develop a sustainable housing solution that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, improving living conditions and promoting sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
-
Phioneers provides an affordable and eco-friendly housing solution for Sub-Saharan Africa.
-
Our innovative approach not only addresses the region's housing shortage but also promotes sustainability, improving living conditions and quality of life for communities in need.
Our Goals
Phioneers' three-year objectives focus on:
-
Establishing the brand as a trusted and reliable provider of low-cost eco-friendly housing solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.
-
Expanding the product range to offer a variety of housing options that cater to different needs and budgets.
-
Enhancing customer experiences by providing efficient and streamlined processes for purchasing and constructing the housing units.
-
Increasing market penetration by targeting underserved areas and partnering with local governments and organizations.
-
​Building strong relationships with suppliers and contractors to ensure the availability of high-quality materials and timely construction.
-
Implementing sustainable practices throughout the construction process to minimize environmental impact.
-
Contributing to the local community by creating job opportunities and supporting local initiatives.
-
Continuously improving and innovating the housing designs to meet the evolving needs and preferences of the target market.
Industry Summary
According to Impact Analytix, the residential remodeler’s industry is experiencing steady growth, with a projected market value of $450 billion by 2025. Phioneers aims to capitalize on this thriving industry by offering high-quality remodeling services to homeowners. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Phioneers is poised to become a leading player in the residential remodeling market.
The customer needs for our low-cost, eco-friendly housing solution in Sub-Saharan Africa are as follows:
Affordability
Customers in Sub-Saharan Africa require housing solutions that are affordable and within their financial means. Our low-cost housing solution aims to provide affordable options to meet this need.
Job Creation
The local communities in Sub-Saharan Africa face high unemployment rates. Our unique feature of using local builders and training them to construct the housing units will create job opportunities within the community. This will not only address the need for housing but also contribute to increasing community income.
Community Involvement
Our housing solution involves the communities in the management of the systems. This means that more employment opportunities will be created as community members will be responsible for the maintenance and operation of the housing units. This feature addresses the need for increased employment within the communities.
Sustainability
Environmental sustainability is a growing concern globally. Our solution addresses this need by sourcing local materials sustainably. By doing so, we reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation and promote the use of renewable resources. This feature aligns with the increasing demand for eco-friendly housing solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Our Market
The following are the primary market trends pertinent to Phioneers:
Affordable Housing:
Increasing demand for low-cost housing solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa due to rapid urbanization and population growth.
​
Eco-Friendly Solutions:
Growing awareness and preference for environmentally sustainable housing options that minimize carbon emissions and promote sustainable development.
​
Job Creation:
Rising interest in housing solutions that not only provide shelter but also generate employment opportunities within the local community, contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction.
Community Empowerment:
A trend towards community involvement and management of housing systems, fostering a sense of ownership and increasing employment opportunities within the community.
​
Local Sourcing:
A shift towards sourcing construction materials locally and sustainably, reducing transportation costs, supporting local economies, and minimizing environmental impact.
Our Team
Ousman Touray
Founder
Ousman is a qualified Civil Engineer with 15 years of experience in major infrastructure engineering and construction. He is committed to building a sustainable future by combining engineering with natural systems. Along his social entrepreneurial journey, Ousman has been recognized by major startup journals for his commitment to sustainable development and improving the quality of life for the poorer communities in Africa.
Larry Leyden
Co Founder
Larry honed his strategic marketing, communication, branding and business management skills by working for two international advertising agencies, servicing brands in South, West and East Africa. His pivot into behavioural and human-centred design as well as his new business development experience within the international development sector makes him the perfect complement to Ousman’s technical skill set.
Josiane Dongmo
Civil Engineer
Josiane holds a Masters in Civil Engineering from the University of Padova. She is a CAD certified project manager, currently serving as the field civil engineer for a leading NGO in the WASH sector. Josiane is passionate about social upliftment and is a CEO and Founder of Growth For All, an NGO that leads successful embodiment and empowerment education processes for vulnerable people.
Maël Sonna
Structural Engineer
Maël holds a Masters in Civil Engineering from the University of Padova, specializing in structural Civil Engineering. He is currently a Doctoral Researcher at INSA Rennes, which is one of the best post-baccalaureate engineering schools in France. Maël is an E4C (Engineering for Change) fellow and aims to build structures that do good.
Derek A. R. Moore
Advisory Board Member
Derek (PhD, AIA) is an Architect and Urbanist who has led numerous large infrastructure projects in the US, MENA, India and Asia. His current research focuses on exploring the alignment of heritage, housing and urban regeneration with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Derek is also a fellow of the American Academy in Rome and taught the history and theory of Architecture at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.
Anna Torriani
Advisory Board Member
Anna is a founding partner and design Principal at APT Architecture (Pagnamenta Torriani), a NY-based Atelier and International Practice. She pursues her understanding of public space through the studio’s SPS (Shaping Public Space) initiative and public engagement. Anna has also been nominated by Ban-Ki-Moon to serve on the Advisory Board for the United Nations Capital Master Plan, and as the Co-Chair of the Public Architecture Committee of the NYC AIA Chapter. Anna and her team deserve commendation for their significant contributions to our architectural design work.
The Big Ask
Projects
DWLBL - Gambia
The lack of affordable, resilient and sustainable housing in Sub-Saharan Africa poses a significant challenge.
DWLBL - Gambia
Existing housing options are often expensive and environmentally unsustainable.
This calls for an innovative solution that provides low-cost, eco-friendly housing to address the pressing need for decent and affordable shelter in the region.
Phioneers aims to develop a sustainable housing solution that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, improving living conditions and promoting sustainable development in Gambia.
Coming Soon!
DWLBL - Tanzania
Coming Soon!
DWLBL - Senegal
Our Valued Partners
We believe in forming strong partnerships and collaborating with like-minded individuals and establishments to achieve the best results. As the saying goes - "teamwork makes the dream work".
We work closely with our partners to deliver the most sustainable solutions.
Click on the images to learn more
Contact Us
Have a particular concept that you want to bring to life? Want to be a part of our journey by joining our team? Contact us today and we will be happy to discuss in more detail.
​
We are looking for passionate and motivated entrepreneurs to join us on our mission to change the way families live in developing nations.