Berlin-based Burkinabe architect Diébédo Francis Kéré, founder of Berlin-based practice Kéré Architecture, has spoken to architect Miguel Pinto Guimarães as part of the conversation series of the 27th World Congress of Architects. 

Kéré is among the confirmed speakers of the UIA2021RIO, which was postponed to 18-22 July 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic in Rio de Janeiro. 

One of the world’s leading architects today, Burkina Faso’s Francis Kére offers lessons in life and architecture, in a treasured conversation with Miguel Pinto Guimarçães. Kéré was the designer of the 2017 Serpentine Pavilion in London's Kensington Gardens. 

"The current crisis has opened our eyes. We must look for local solutions in order to solve global problems, promoting and architecture that involves local workers, come up with local techniques and materials, and empower people," says Francis Kéré.

Video by UIA2021RIO

Born in Burkina Faso, Kéré revealed himself as an agent of social transformation on his continent. Their projects combine materials and traditional construction methods and count on the participation of the community. 

Confirmed as a keynote speaker at the 27th International Congress of Architects, Kéré operates in countries as diverse as Mali, Yêmen, China and the United States. 

Kéré holds prestigious awards such as the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, the Global Holcim Award, the BSI Swiss Architectural Award and the Schelling Architecture Award, among others.

Miguel Pinto Guimarães has projects in Brazil and abroad and is also confirmed as a speaker at UIA2021RIO.

Top image courtesy of the video

> via UIA2021RIO