A new era for west African architecture 

By Claire McQue

The history of colonisation still stands tall across west African cities. Benin’s politicians pass laws in a French-built villa. Modernist architecture was brought to Ghana by British colonists. If public buildings help shape a country’s identity, perhaps it is no wonder the region is looking for new ones. In 2024 several grands projets will be completed across west Africa, heralding an exciting new era of architecture that represents democracy, modernity and sustainable development.