Architecture in Africa didn’t begin with colonialism, it had deep roots long before. People built with the local land, using methods that worked for their climate, culture, and way of life. These systems weren’t outdated. They were smart, flexible, and sustainable. Colonial rule disrupted all of that. Western models were brought in, and slowly, local traditions were sidelined. Even after independence, many countries kept building with Western ideas, thinking that this showed progress. But these designs often didn’t fit the environment, and they made countries more dependent on imported systems. This thesis follows that story. From the early days of disruption to the present-day efforts to bring traditional building back, it shows how African architecture changed and how it’s being reclaimed. The effects of imitation were felt not just in how buildings looked, but in how people were taught. Still, this isn’t just a story of loss. It’s one of resistance too. Architects like Kéré, Kamara, and Fathy have shown that local traditions
can offer powerful solutions. Their work proves that you don’t have to choose between being modern and being rooted in place, you can be both. African architecture needs more support, through education and policies which values local knowledge. Reclaiming architectural identity isn’t about nostalgia, it's about building futures that are sustainable, inclusive, and grounded in cultural identity. That’s not just a design challenge. It’s a shift in mindset.