THE UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE & BUILDING SCIENCE

SCHOOL OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Submitted by:

NJUGUNA WANJIKU MAGDALINE

B02/0306/2009

FEBRUARY 2016

KUKU TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE Tutor: ARCH Musau Kimeu

This thesis paper is my original work and has, to the best of my knowledge not been presented in the University of Nairobi or

any other Institution for the purpose of awarding of a degree in Architecture or any other field. This thesis is submitted as a

partial fulfillment of the examination requirements for the award of the Bachelor of Architecture degree, in the Department of

Architecture and Building Science at the University of Nairobi

Author: ................................................................................

Njuguna Magdaline Wanjiku

B02|0306/2009

Tutor: ..............................................................................

Arch. Musau Kimeu

Year Master: .......................................................................

Prof. Tom Anyamba

Chairman: …………………………………………….………………………….

DECLARATION

Date: .........................................................

Date: .........................................................

Date: .........................................................

Date: .........................................................

ACKNOWLEDMENTS

While undertaking my investigation, I was privileged to experience the kindness and support of many individuals both in South Sudan and

Kenya. I would like to return my gratitude, (though words alone may not be enough) particularly, Mr. Peter Wani who was kind enough to

take me through the history of the KUKU. My sincere gratitude goes to you. Hoping that the information contained herein will echo the

uniqueness of your People.

***

I would like to return my gratitude to my Lecturers, Department of Architecture and Building Science, University of Nairobi. For their useful

input during presentations and informal interactions.

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study.............................................................8

1.1.1 Colonization:... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

1.1.2 Missionaries:..................................................................11

1.2 Problem Statement ......................................................................11

1.3 Research Questions......................................................................11

1.4 Research Aims and Objectives.................................................11

1.5 Study Justification and Significance......................................12

1.6 Scope and Limitation of Study.................................................12

1.7Organization of Study...................................................................12

2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction…………………………………………………………….16

2.2 Migration History of the KUKU............................................... 17

2.2 Geography of Kuku-Land........................................................... 20

2.3 Climatic characteristics of Kuku-Land................................. 21

2.4 Seasons:............................................................................................. 22

2.4.2 Agriculture and Gardens ..........................................22

2.4.3 Harvesting ......................................................................24

2.5 The KUKU and pastoralism .....................................................24

2.6 Social-Structure of the KUKU...................................................25

2.6.1 Mythology and Cosmology ......................................25

2.6.2 Birth and death ............................................................25

2.6.3 Marriage .........................................................................27

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2.6.4 Family Structure .......................................................28

2.6.5 Division of Labour ....................................................28

2.6.6 Social Hierarchy .........................................................28

The Lui / freemen ......................................................29

Tomonok ......................................................................29

The Dupi ........................................................................30

2.7 Life according to the KUKU....................................31

2.7.1 Honesty .........................................................................31

2.8 Political Organization of the KUKU ...................................31

2.8.1 Chieftaincy ...................................................................31

2.8.2 Laws ...............................................................................31

2.9 Religion............................................................................................31

2.9.1 Ngun ................................................................................31

2.9.2 Spirits .............................................................................32

2.10 Cultural Practices ....................................................................33

2.10.1 Rain making ..............................................................34

2.10.2 Use of poison ...........................................................35

2.11 Rites of passage ....................................................................36

2.11.1 Naming ceremonies................................................36

2.11.2 Age Classes .................................................................36

2.11.3 Initiation .....................................................................37

2.11.4 Song and Dance .......................................................37

2.6.4 Family Structure........................................................28

2.6.5 Division of Labour ...................................................28

2.6.6 Social Hierarchy .......................................................28

The Lui / freemen ...................................................29

Tomonok ..............................................................29

The Dupi .................................................................30

2.7 Life according to the KUKU...................................31

2.7.1 Honesty .................................................................31

2.8 Political Organization of the KUKU .................................31

2.8.1 Chieftaincy ...............................................................31

2.8.2 Laws ......................................................................31

2.9 Religion ...................................................................................31

2.9.1 Ngun ...........................................................................31

2.9.2 Spirits ........................................................................32

2.10 Cultural Practices .................................................................33

2.10.1 Rain making .......................................................34

2.10.2 Use of poison .........................................................35

2.11 Rites of passage ...............................................................36

2.11.1 Naming ceremonies .............................................36

2.11.2 Age Classes ............................................................36

2.11.3 Initiation .............................................................37

2.11.4 Song and Dance .....................................................37

2.12 Economy of the KUKU...........................................................38

A. Craftsmanship .........................................................38

B. Hunting and gathering ........................................38

2.13 Art and cultural Symbols .................................................39

A. Earings ............................................................40

B. Body Art

2.14 Architecture

2.14.1 Building in the tropical climate ...............................41

2.14.2 Tropical house design strategies ..............................42

2.15 KUKU Architecture...........................................................................45

2.15.1 Building technology..........................................................47

2.15.2 Building materials.............................................................48

2.16 Transformation of KUKU Architecture....................................48

2.16.1 Impact of the missionaries on Architecture...........49

2.16.2 Impact of the British on Architecture.......................50

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................51

3.2 Justification of Study......................................................................52

3.3 Research Purpose............................................................................52

3.4 Research design................................................................................55

3.5 Sampling method.............................................................................55

3.6 Scope......................................................................................................56

3.7 Data Collection Methods .............................................................56

3.7.1 Measured Drawings ........................................................................56

3.7.2 Temperature Measurement.........................................................56

5. CONCLUSIONS and RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Introduction……………………………………………….…………………...82

5.2 Genesis……………………………………………………………….…………...82

5.2.1: Response to Thesis Aims and Objectives

5.2.2: Summary of Current South

Sudanese Architecture

5.3 Lessons Learnt From Literature review…………………….……...83

5.3.1: Effect of climate and topography of

Kajo-keji on the KUKU………………………………………..84

5.3.2: KUKU and Agriculture……………….………………………..85

5.3.3: Effects of KUKU traditional

practices on Architecture…………………………………...86

5.3.4: KUKU Dwelling clusters……………………………………...87

5.3.5: Lessons learnt from KUKU architecture……………….88

5.3.6: KUKU Building technology and materials…………….90

5.3.7: Typologies of houses found among the KUKU……...92

5.4 Summary of field work…………………………………………………….93

5.5.1: Case study 1

5.5.2: Case study 2

5.5.3: Case study 3

5.5 Conclusions……………………………………………………………………..96

5.6 Recommendations…………………………………………………………..97

References

Appendix

3.7.3 Interviews.................................................................. 57

3.7.4 Observation .............................................................. 57

3.8 Data collecting equipment ..................................................57

3.9 Data analysis and presentation.........................................58

3.9.1 Freehand drawings/Sketches..............................58

3.9.2 Arch cad/Graphic aided design .........................58

3.9.3 Pictorial representation ......................................58

3.9.4 3D representation ..................................................58

4a. FIELD WORK

4.1 Introduction ……………………………………………………...48

4.2 Kaji-Keji, Settlement and Planning………………………..48

4.3 KUKU Vernacular Architecture……………………………..5o

4.4 Social Cultural Back-ground……………………………………………………………………...51

4.5 Social Economic Background………………………………..51

4.6 Case Study 1: KORIK Village…………………………………52

4.7 Case Study 2:……………………………………………………… 61

4.8 Case Study 3:……………………………………………………….70

4b. CLIMATIC DATA

4b.1 Introduction………………………………………………………78

4b.2 Case study 1 ……………………………………………………...79

4b.3 Case study 2……………………………………………………….80

4b.4 Combined analysis……………………………………………..81

4b.5 Overview …………………………………………………………..81

Fig 1.1 Satellite image of a village in Kajokeji S.Sudan 1

FIG 1.2 Image of a homestead in Central Equatoria 1

FIG 1.3 Image of a homestead in Central Equatoria 1

FIG 1.4 Map of eastern Africa: Migration into S. Sudan and map thereof 2

FIG 1.5 Map of South Sudan showing the location of Kajo-keji where the KUKIU 2

fig 1.6Map of Africa indicating location of South Sudan 2

fig 1.7 Map of KAjokeji showing the population distribution 2

Fig 1.8 A village in Kajokeji thereof 3

fig 1.9 Structures introduced by the Missionaries (A church 3 fig 1.10 Structures introduced by the Missionaries (A church 3

fig 1.11 A hut in Jajokeji showing. There are a variety of shapes the hut takes 4

fig 1.12 A hut in Jajokeji showing. There are a variety of shapes the hut takes 4 fig 1.13 Image showing a contemporary structure built in the theme of the tra-

ditional house 5

fig 1.14 Modern structures in South Sudan 5

fig 2.1 Map Of East Africa showing the distribution of Nilotes 7

fig 2.2 Map showing the final location of the KUKU after the migration 7

fig 2.3 Map showing the distribution of the KUKU in Kajokeji County 7

Fig 2.5 Peter Wani: A village elder 8

Fig 2.6 Map OF south Sudan Showing the location of Kajokeji 8

Fig 2.7 Close Up map showing the location of Kajokeji 8

Fig 2.8 Image showing some members of the KUKU tribe in Kajo-Keji 9

Fig 2.9 Image showing the location of Kajokeji in relation to the boarder of 9

Fig 2.10 Image showing the distribution of the KUKU in Kajo-keji County 9

Fig 2.11 Map showing the geographical distribution of the Nilotic tribes 11

Fig 2.12 Map showing the geographical distribution of different climates in

South Sudan 11

Fig 2.13 Map showing the geographical distribution of different climates in

Africa 12

Fig 2.14 Map showing the geographical distribution of different climates in

Africa 12

Fig 2.15 Map showing the geographical distribution of different climatic zones

in South Sudan 13

Fig 2.16 Illustration of the traditional Bari homestead 14

Fig 2.17 Illustration of the traditional Bari homestead elevation 14

Fig 2.18 Image showing a KUKU man with body painting 17

Fig 2.19 Image showing a KUKU man with body painting moaning the death of

a bull 17

Fig 2.12 Image showing Bari Chiefs 22

Fig 2.13 Illustration of the naming of the cooking stones to honor the ancestors 24

Fig 2.14 Image of the ficus tree considered to be sacred in the Bari community 24

Fig 2.15 Illustration of a grave in the KUKU community 25

Fig 2.16 Illustration of a grave of a rain chief and his wife in the KUKU commu-

nity 25

Fig 2.17 Image of rain stones used by the rain maker to summon rain 26

Fig 2.18 Illustration showing the graves located outside the hut in the Bari com-

munity 26

Fig 2.19 Illustration showing the marking found on a rain stone 27

Fig 2.20 A picture of a Bari lady with feathers and body art 29

Figure 2.21 A picture of Bari boys with b painting. These boys belong to a cer-

tain age class 29

Fig 2.22 A picture of pottery in the Bari community 30

Fig 2.23 Illustration of design strategies to maintain an appropriate internal

thermal comfort 31

Fig 2.24 Image of a KUKU hut showing the various elements in the design: roof,

wall, opening 31

Fig 2.25 Illustration of optimum human thermal comfort 32

Fig 2.26 Illustration of cross ventilation to regulate humidity levels 32

Fig 2.27 Illustration of cross ventilation to regulate humidity levels 32

LIST OF FIGURES

Fig 2.28 Image showing a traditional homestead in South Sudan 33

Fig 2.29 Illustration of the roof structure of a KUKU hut 33

fig 2.30 Image showing a modern village in the bari commun kity. The buildings

are of old construction technology but the services i.e water are got by modern

means 34

fig 2.31 Image showing the use of brightly coloured materials used in walling 34

fig 2.32 Image showing the use of brightly coloured materials used in walling 34

fig 2.33 Illustration of the Hierarchy of architectural spaces 35

fig 2.34 Illustration of the lay outing of the homestead 35

fig 2.35 Elevation of a section of the homestead 36

fig 2.36 Image of a woman pounding beans outside her hut 36

fig 2.37 Image of an incomplete hut . This shows the internal structure of the

walling system in KUKU architecture 37

fig 2.38 Image of the Arab trades who trans versed South Sudan for ivory trade 39

fig 2.39 Image of a boat belonging to the explorers who sailed the Nile down

though South Sudan 39

fig 2.40 Image of A church in South Sudan Constructed by the Missionaries 39

fig 2.41 Image of A church in South Sudan Constructed by the Missionaries 41

fig 2.42 Image showing the effects of modernization in the architecture of

South Sudan 41

fig 2.43 Image showing the effects of modernization in the architecture of

South Sudan 41

fig 3.1 Satellite Image showing a section Of Kajokeji with a variety of home-

steads belonging to the same clan 42

fig 3.2 Satellite Image showing a close up of a traditional village in South Sudan 42

fig 3.3 Image Showing a single hut /Unit in a homestead 42

fig 3.4 Image showing the location of Kajokeji in the overall map of South Su- 44

FIG 3.5 Image showing the location of Kajokeji in a close up map of South Su- 44

fig 3.6 Map of Kajokeji County showing the distribution of the different villlag-

es 44

fig 3.7 Map showing the various counties in South Sudan and position of Ka- 45

fig 3.8 Image showing present day Kajokeji 45

fig 3.9 Image showing a camera: Instrument of recording pictorial information 46

fig 3.10 Image showing a tape measure: the instrument used to determine

distances 46

fig 3.11 Image showing a Data logger: the instrument used to capture tempera-

ture and humidity levels. 46

fig 4.1 Map of south sudan showing the location od central Equatorial 48

fig 4.2 Map off Central exquatorial state showing the location of Kajokeji 48

fig 4.3 Map showing the population distribution in south sudan 48

fig 4.4 Typologies of dwellings found in South Sudan 49

fig 4.5/ 4.6 Image showing the main town in Kajokaji south Sudan. Dwellings in

south Sudan have taken a shape that does not respond to the traditional build-

ing principles . They however respond to the use of local materials which is a 49

fig 4.7 Satellite image showing the distribution od construction within Wudu

center which is the administrative center of the county. 49

fig 4.8 Image showing a charming example modern reinterpretation of tradi-

tional architecture in wudu center. 50

fig 4.9 Image showing a close up of modern materials used in construction in 50

fig 410 Image showing a traditional house in Kajokeji 50

fig 411 Image showing the transformation of KUKU houses. Use of bricks for

support 50

fig 412 Image showing the transformation of KUKU houses. Using local materi-

al 50

fig 413 Image showing a reinterpretation of traditional architecture 50

fig 4.14 Image showing the use of courtyards as a central organizing element 51

fig 4.15 Plan of a kuku home stead. The houses are arranged around a court-

yard. 51

fig 4.16 A section through a homestead. Showing the relationship between the

different activities that take place in the homestead 51

fig 4.17 Image showing the activities in the courtyard 51

fig 4.18 Image showing the activities in the courtyard 51

fig 4.19 Image showing the importance of the farm to the KUKU 51

fig 4.20 Image showing the importance of the tree to the KUKU home-

stead courtyard. 51

fig 4.21 Illustration of the growing series of homesteads 52

fig 4.22 Satellite image showing of the growing series of homesteads 52

fig 4.23 Illustration od the spatial organization of the homestead 52

fig 4.24 Illustration of the master plan of the first homestead 52

fig 4.24 Images of the main house and the guest house in the first home-

stead. In that order 52

fig 4.25 Illustration of the courtyard space in this homestead 52

fig 4.26 Image of this homestead’s bathroom 52

fig 4.27 Image of homestead’s Chicken Coup 52

fig 4.28/4.29 Images showing the courtyard and main entrance into the

homestead 52

fig 4.30 Illustration showing a hierarchy of spaces in the growing home-

stead. 53

fig 4.31 Illustration of the master Planning of the first homestead 53

fig 4.32 Image showing the main house in the third homestead 53

fig 4.33 Illustration of the master Planning of the second homestead 53

fig 4.34 Image showing the main house in the second homestead 53

fig 4.35xIllustration of the master planning of the first homestead 53

fig 4.36 Floor plan of the main house, Second homestead 53

fig 4.37 Illustration of floor layout, main house, second homestead 53

fig 4.38 A section through the main house, second homestead 53

fig 4.30 Section through the main house, second homestead; Showing the

main spaces 54

fig 4.31 Section through the main house, second homestead; Showing the

relationship of spaces 54

fig 4.32 Image of the void created between the roof and wall 54

fig 4.33 Image of the main house: Second homestead 54

fig 4.34 Sleeping space, main house, second homestead 54

fig 4.35 Detail of the apron, wall section 54

fig 4.36 Foundation detail, main house 54

fig 4.37 A wall under construction: The use of mud bricks and mud plaster 54

fig 4.38 Plan of the main house, second homestead. Showing a double

wall support 54

fig 4.39 Image of the main house, second homestead. Showing a double

wall support 54

fig 4.40/4.41 Image of the type of special coloured soil used in plastering 54

fig 4.42 Image of the main house, third homestead. Showing the type of

wall and its finish 54

fig 4.43 Image of the main house, second homestead. Showing the type

of wall and its finish 54

fig 4.44 Image showing how light finds its way into the house through the

space between the wall and roof. 54

fig 4.45 Illustration of the effect of the gap between the wall and roof and

how that serves in ventilation 54

fig 4.46 Illustration of the effect of the high thermal mass of the mud wall 54

fig 4.47 Illustration of the effect on radiation of the brightly coloured wall 54

fig 4.48 Image of the main house, third homestead, the stepped roof 55

fig 4.49 Image of the main house, third homestead, roof void 55

fig 4.50 Illustration showing the relationship between the roof and wall,

inclination, and details. 55

fig 4.51 Illustration and image of the roof support and transfer of weight

to the ground 55

fig 4.52 (Below) Illustration of the role of the roof in ventilation 55

fig 4.53 Illustration of the different points in the roof where different

blade sizes of grass are used. 55

fig 4.54 Image of a man harvesting the grass blades used in making the

roof 55

fig 4.55 Image of a man holding the sickle used in harvesting grass blades 55

fig 4.56/ 4.57 Image of the different grass blade thicknesses and where in

the house they are used. 55

fig 4.59 Image showing how the thatch is held in place from the under-

side of the roof 55

fig 4.60 Illustration of the roof apex. Showing how the apex is treated. 55

fig 4.61 Illustration of the roof apex. Andits relationship to the other 55

Fig 4.62 Illustration of how light comes into the house 56

Fig 4.63 Image showing how light comes into the house 56

Fig 4.64 Image showing how light comes into the house 56

Fig 4.65 Illustration the relationship of the courtyard with the various

houses in the homestead 56

Fig 4.66 Image showing the relationship of the courtyard with the various

houses in the homestead 56

Fig 4.67 Illustration of the Floor plan of the children’s house and its lay-

out 56

Fig 4.68 Section of the children’s house showing the internal organization

of the house 56

Fig 4.69 Illustration showing the children's houses in three homesteads 56

Fig 4.70 Section of the children’s house showing the internal organization

of the house 56

fig 4.71 Section if the children’s house showing the foundation 57

fig 4.72 Detail of the foundation 57

fig 4.73 Illustration showing the flow of cool air for ventilation 57

fig 4.74 Illustration of the effect of high thermal mass mud walls 57

fig 4.75 Illustration of the effect of high thermal mass mud walls 57

fig 4.76 Images showing the mud soil mixture that is used for plastering 57

fig 4.77 Image showing the roof of the children’s house 57

fig 4.78/ 4.79/4.80 Images and illustration showing the various roof de-

tails 57

fig 4.81 Illustration to show location of the various kitchens in the home-

stead 57

fig 4.82 Illustration to show location of the Kitchen 58

fig 4.83 Image of the kitchen, 4rth Homestead 58

fig 4.84 section of the kitchen, 4rth Homestead 58

fig 4.85 Image showing storage from the kitchen roof 58

fig 4.86/ 4.87 Images showing the various storage devises in the kitchen 58

fig 4.88 Images showing the cooking ovens 3 stone (oven) 58

fig 4.89 Section through the kitchen showing the various functional dis-

position 58

fig 4.90 Illustration of the foundation detail 59

fig 4.91 Section showing the relationship between the foundation and

the rest of the house 59

fig 4.92 Image showing teak poles used as support 59

fig 4.93 Image showing the wall (made from mud tucked in bamboo

frame 59

fig 4.94 Image showing how the kitchen is ventilated 59

fig 4.95 Image showing a section through a wall 59

fig 4.96 Image showing a section through a wall. 59

fig 4.97 Image showing a section through a wall. 59

fig 4.98 Section showing the ventilation of the kitchen 59

fig 4.99 Image showing the kitchen being ventilated 59

fig 4.100 Plan showing fenestrations and ventilation 60

fig 4.101 Image showing the porosity in the kitchen. 60

fig 4.102 Illustration showing the goat house location 60

fig 4.03 Image showing the goat house 60

fig 4.104 Illustration showing the goat house location 60

fig 4.105 Illustration showing the goat house elevation 60

fig 4.106 Illustration of the floor layout of the goat house 60

fig 4.107 Section through the goat house sowing the different spaces 60

fig 4.108 The wall of the goat house allows for maximum ventilation 60

fig 4.109 Images showing the bathrooms of two of the homesteads. 60

fig 4.110 Illustration of the homestead. The different house typologies on

the homestead 61

fig 4.111 Image : Second case study 61

fig 4.112 Satellite image of the second case study 61

fig 4.113 Illustration showing the spatial; layout oh the homestead 61

fig 4.114 Image of the main huose 61

fig 4.115 Image of the two sons’ houses 61

fig 4.116 Image showing the kitchen 61

fig 4.116 Image of the daughter’s house 62

fig 4.117 Image showing the store 62

fig 4.117 Image showing the store 62

fig 4.118 Section through the homestead showing the relationship be-

tween the main house, son’s house and store 62

fig 4.119 Plan of the main hose, showing relationship of spaces and dimen-

sions 62

fig 4.120 Illustration of the wall: this shows the relationship between the

wall, floor and roof. 63

fig 4.121 Image of a representation of the wall made from mud bricks and

bound together by mud motor 63

fig 4.122 Illustration of the effect on internal thermal comfort of the high

thermal mud walls 63

fig 4.123 Illustration of the roof structure. Bamboo forming the main struc-

ture and thatch forming the body. 63

fig 4.124 Illustration of the roof structure and its various parts. 63

fig 4.125 Section showing the relationship between the roof space and the

main house. 63

fig 4.126 Illustration of the roof structure and its various parts. 63

fig 4.127 Illustration of effect of fenestrations and ventilation. 64

fig 4.128 Illustration showing the location of the son’s house. 64

fig 4.129 Illustration showing the son’s house floor plan layout 64

fig 4.130 Section through the son’s house, showing the relationship of spaces 64

fig 4.131 Illustration showing the detail od the foundation 64

fig 4.132 Image showing the direction of the daughter’s house 65

fig 4.133 floor plan of the daughter’s house showing the relationship of spac-

es 65

fig 4.134 Image of the daughter’s house 65

fig 4.135 Section of the house showing the relationship of spaces. 65

fig 4.136 Detail of the daughter’s house foundation 65

fig 4.137 Image showing the roof structure of the daughter’s house. The

weight of the roof resting on the teak poles 66

fig 4.138 As series of images and illustrations showing the details of the roof 66

fig 4.145 Section through the roof. Showing the roof structure. 67

fig 4.146 Section showing the transfer of weight from the roof 67

fig 4.147 Plan of the kitchen showing the floe of air for ventilation. 68

fig 4.148 Illustration showing the location of the store in this homestead 68

fig 4.149 Illustration showing the master plan of the homestead and thus the

location of the store in plan 68

fig 4.150 Plan of the store 68

fig 4.151 Image showing the store 68

fig 4.152 Section through the store showing the relationship of spaces 68

fig 4.153 Section showing the details of the kitchen 68

fig 4.155 Illustration showing the space created by the roof. Helpful in ventila-

tion 69

fig 4.156 Image showing the character of the roof. In this case, it is not as

stepped as the rest 69

fig 4.157 Image showing ventilation of the store. Made effective by the large

opening 69

fig 4.158 Image of the homestead owner. He is the village healer as well as seer 70

fig 4.159 Image of a hut in this homestead. The main house 70

fig 4.160 Illustration: the master plan of the homestead. The units are organized

around the courtyard 70

fig 4.139 Image showing the kitchen 66

fig 4.140 Image showing the kitchen 66

fig 4.141 Plan of the kitchen showing the relationship between the various

spaces within 66

fig 4.142 Section through the kitchen showing the vertical and horizontal

spatial relationships. 67

fig 4.143 Section showing the wall and how it relates to the foundation, roof

and floor 67

fig 4.144 A detail of the foundation: showing its various dimensions. 67

fig 4.161/ 4.162 Images showing the courtyard which is the focal point of the

homesteads and the tree which is found in the center of the courtyard 70

fig 4.163 Image of the courtyard in use for entertaining guests 70

fig 4.164 Image: The main house 70

fig 4.165 Image of the kitchen; Found to the right o of the main house. The rea-

son being for easy access 71

fig 4.166 Image of the spirit house which was originally the house of the first son 71

fig 4.167 Image of the second son’s house. Accessed from the courtyard 71

fig 4.168 Image of the third son’s house. Accessed from the courtyard 71

fig 4.169 Image of the second daughter’s house. Accessed from the courtyard 71

fig 4.170 Image of the first daughter’s house. Accessed from the courtyard 71

fig 4.171 Illustration showing the master planning of the homestead as well

as the location of the main house 72

fig 4.171 Illustration showing the master planning of the homestead as well

as the location of the main house 72

fig 4.172 Image of the main house 72

fig 4.173 Illustration: Floor plan layout of the main house showing disposi-

tion of spaces 72

fig 4.174 Section through the house: Showing the vertical relationship of

elements and spaces 72

fig 4.175 Detail showing the wall detail of the house 72

fig 4.176 Image showing the roof design of the house 73

fig 4.177/ 4.178 Image showing the internal design of the roof as well as a

sectional detail of the same 73

fig 4.179 Image showing a close up on the roof structure 73

fig 4.180 Image showing a composition of the roof while incomplete 73

fig 4.181 Master plan showing the position of the kitchen and its relation to

the rest of the houses 73 fig 4.182 An image of the kitchen 73

fig 4.183 An image of a young boy helping put in the kitchen 73

fig 4.184 An image of a mud oven in the kitchen 73

fig 4.185 An image of some of the storage equipment in the kitchen 73

fig 4.187 A section through the kitchen showing the different spaces 74

fig 4.188 An illustration of how the kitchen is ventilated 74

fig 4.196 Image showing the spirit house 75

fig 4.197 Illustration: the floor plan of the first sons house 75

fig 4.198 Section through the son’s house. Showing the emptiness of the house 75

fig 4.199 Detail of the foundation 75

fig 4.200 Image showing the roof design of the son’s house 76

fig 4.201 Master plan showing the location of the second son’s house 76

fig 4.202 Satellite image showing the actual location of the homestead and

position of the second son’s house 76

fig 4.203 Illustration of the floor plan showing the disposition of spaces 76

fig 4.204 Illustration: A section through the second son’s house to show the

vertical distribution of spaces 76

fig 4.205 Illustration showing the details of the foundation 77

fig 4.189 A detail through the wall to illustrate how rainfall it directed away

form the building 74

fig 4.190 A detail illustrating the make of the wall 74

fig 4.191 An image showing the make up of the roof 74

fig 4.193 Section showing how the kitchen is ventilated through the fenes-

trations 75

fig 4.194 Illustration showing the position of the first son’s house as well as

the spirit house 75

fig 4.195 Satellite image showing the location of the homestead under

study 75

FIG 5.1 Map of eastern Africa: Migration into S. Sudan and map thereof 83

FIG 5.2 Map of eastern Africa: Migration into S. Sudan and map thereof 83

fig 5.3 Map of Africa indicating location of South Sudan 83

Fig 5.4 Map Of East Africa showing the distribution of Nilotes 83

Fig 5.5 Map Of East Africa showing the distribution of Nilotes 84

fig 5.6 Map showing the final location of the KUKU after the migration 84

fig 5.7 Map showing the distribution of the KUKU in Kajokeji County 84

fig 5.8 Images showing the difference in granaries 84

fig 5.9 Illustration showing one case study where the farm surrounds the home-

stead. Farming informs the homestead layout. 85

fig 5.10 Images showing farm lands surrounding the homesteads 85

fig 5.11 Images showing farm lands surrounding the homesteads 87

FIG 5.12 Illustration of the fenestrations found in the KUKU houses. This is a

case of a kitchen 87

FIG 5.13 Illustration of the Hierarchy of architectural spaces 87

FIG 5.14 Illustration of the lay outing of the homestead 86

FIG 25.19 Image showing the use of bright;ly coloured materials used in walling 89

5.20 Image of an incomplete hut . This shows the internal structure of the wall-

ing system in KUKU architecture 90

5.21 Image showing the type of material used in wall construction 90

fig 5.22 Structure of the roof 90

FIG 5.14 Illustration of the fenestrations found in the KUKU houses. This is a

case of a kitchen 91

FIG 5.23 Illustration of the Hierarchy of architectural spaces 91

FIG 5.24 Illustration of the lay outing of the homestead 91

FIG 5.25 Illustration of the traditional Bari homestead 92

FIG 5.26 Illustration of the traditional Bari homestead 92

FIG 5.27 Illustration of the traditional Bari homestead 92

FIG 5.28 Image showing the location of Kajokeji in the overall map of South Su- 93

FIG 5.29 Image showing the location of Kajokeji in a close up map of South Su- 93

FIG 5.30 Map Of Kajokeji County showing the distribution of the different

villlages 93

FIG 5.31 Image of one of the homestead in this case study 95

FIG 5.32 Illustration of the growing series of homesteads 95

FIG 5.33 Illustration of the overall layout of the second case study 96

Fig 5.34 Illustration showing the overall layout od the third case study 97

fig 5.16 Illustration of effect of fenestrations and ventilation. 88

FIG 5.17 Image showing a modern village in the bari commun kity. The buildings

are of old construction technology but the services i.e water are got by modern

means 89

FIG 5.18 Image showing the use of bright;ly coloured materials used in walling 89

ABSTRACT

‘Going back to the beginning’. This is a common phrase used by many a transcendent individuals. It means going back to the basic principles of

things. Architecture worldwide seeks to provide shelter, make a mark, define space for a myriad of reasons. Architecture and infrastructure in

many countries is used as a determinant of how progressive and how developed a country is. While seeking to identify themselves with devel-

oped first world countries, many developing countries especially in Africa adapt the modern concept of architecture exhibited by first world

countries, forgetting the contextual differences of the continents. This leads to erection of buildings that say nothing about its people, context,

climate and region of its location.

In response to the above unfortunate reality, this research paper seeks to go back to the basics of construction in developing countries, to

learn form our fore fathers who independently determined their dwelling spaces that respected its people, context, climate and region. While

it is true traditional architecture offers little solution to modern day architectural needs, the basics of traditional design remain useful in to-

day’s modern context through reinterpretation of the design principles. The Author looks at a case of a tribe whose architecture has not been

documented. Upon documentation, it is the Author’s hope that today’s and future generations may find the data recorded to be a useful tool

in designing for modern day architectural needs while considering the principles laid by traditional architecture.

Chapter

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of study

1.1.1 Colonization

1.1.2 Missionaries

1.2 Problem statement

1.3 Research Questions

1.4 Research objectives

1.5 Justification of study

1.6 Scope and Limitations of study

17

FIG 1.1 Satellite image of a village in Kajokeji S.Sudan

1.1 Background of Study

Africa is generally making considerable efforts to find its social, economic and political niche on the globe. Its

built form appears to be battling to be part of the complete world. its Architecture generally is not considered

worthy of recognition According to Labelle Prussin, moreover African architecture has been suggested to

lack a feeling of space as generally understood. She additionally writes that Africans have not made an at-

tempt to use space as a building material.

African indigenous architecture: this is to refer to the architecture that carries an identity of the indigenous peo-

ple of the continent today.-Dimmisani Mhabala

A man’s environment has from time immemorial been shaped by vernacular architecture; this is seen in terms of the basic spatial layout. It is safe to deduce that the basic elements of a living environment have al-ways borrowed the principles from the traditional design layouts. Colonialism in many ways brought chang-es in the way the African man views his environment. The western ideas were brought to the traditional Afri-can communities resulting to changes in how Africans express themselves through culture and built form. South Sudan is no stranger to this phenomenon. Aside from Colonization, the country has been exposed to a

variety of factors especially civil war that has tremendously affected the cultural identity of the people and

hence physical expression in the built form.

Little attention has been paid to the built form of the country and this can be attributed to various factors

such as:

a. Discouragement of investors from investing largely into the country

b. Poverty levels escalating discouraging individuals from investing in quality buildings

c. Due to the state of tension and anxiety over the future of the country, the residents are forced to build

temporary houses just for the basic need of shelter.

[This as a deduction made from observation and after speaking to authority figures in the region]

African Traditional Architecture today: Dimmisani Mhalaba, Architect SA

House form and culture, Amos Rappaport

Introduction

FIG 1.2 Image of a homestead in Central Equatoria

FIG 1.3 Image of a homestead in Central Equatoria

18

FIG 1.4 Map of eastern Africa: Migration into S. Sudan and map

thereof

Because of factors such as the ones mentioned, the buildings do not reflect the culture, spirit of the people or

even the terrain of the land. This can be seen from the interpretation of materials as well as the manifested

forms. The building deigns are largely a reflection of the western building technologies techniques and materi-

als. Having recently attained independence (July 2011), South Sudan shows plenty of promise in growth and

development. Soon, modernism will face off the existing forms of traditionalism in their architecture, which

should be the basis of their contemporary architectural development. There is therefore need to document the

cultural beliefs and practices, planning principles and building technology of the various tribes in South Sudan.

With this said, the KUKU tribe is the focus of this paper.

The myth of the darkest Africa is persistent and there are still many people who find it hard to accept that the

traditional buildings of this continent merit more than a passing consideration. One only has to consider for a

moment the vocabulary use to refer to them to realize that even for those who know and consider other aspects of

African culture, it is hard to avoid being drawn into the web a selective and distorted perception……. SUSAN

DENYR

The KUKU being a Nilotic subgroup of the Bari speaking tribe found in Central Equatoria state in South Sudan, like the many ethnic groups in South Sudan, they have over the years been exposed to a number of factors that have influenced their identity and authenticity. This has caused a rapid evolution of their architectural, social, economic and political organization. For instance:

FIG 1.5 Map of South Sudan showing the location of Kajo-keji

where the KUKIU finally settled

fig 1.7

Map of KAjokeji showing the population distribution

Introduction

fig 1.6

Map of Africa indicating location of South Sudan

19

1.1.1 Colonization:

Colonial invasion caused an extinction of generations with reliable understanding of what would be regarded as truly African. To date, African authenticity is still validated by European and western interpretation in that anything African is associated with backwardness and therefore needs European attention. The coming of the British to South Sudan has had an impact on the people as colonialists believed African ways to be primitive and backward. They brought along with them foreign systems which they quickly dis-seminated to the natives without consideration of the depth and meaning in the existing systems of the indig-enous people. For this reason, the indigenous people started abandoning their ways and adapting the im-posed systems of the British. Hence there were changes in family systems, education, political organization use of materials etc.

1.1.2 Missionaries:

The coming of missionaries into South Sudan also influenced their social organization. The introduction of Christianity led to the abandonment of the pantheistic religious and marital practices. Such changes saw reflec-tive changes in the architecture in terms of space use, house layout and such like elements.

1.2 Problem Statement

Shelter is a fundamental human need. The concept of shelter has changed over the years and the world has

quickly adapted a western view. Modernism has brought about a change building technology and materials

due to a common interpretation of space and its functions. Context and sense of place (Genius Loci) has slowly

ceased to be the basis of modern design. Traditional architecture exhibited sensitivity to context and genius

loci. Drawing from traditional architecture, we can be able to design more authentic spaces. The KUKU of

South Sudan like most African communities had a rich culture and their architecture, like any other vernacular

architecture, was site sensitive. This was expressed through: use of local materials such as Bamboo, reeds,

mud soil for construction, the flow of spaces which followed the natural flow of activities, use of as much day-

lighting as possible, use of outside spaces, Little manipulation of land, easy flow of spaces etc. This contributed

to the authenticity of their built form. Unfortunately, documentation of this architecture has also not been ade-

quate and so the current generation has not been able to adopt their designs to follow the set precedence of

the earlier generations.

FIG 1.8 A village in Kajokeji thereof

fig 1.9 Structures introduced by the Missionaries (A church)

fig 1.10

Structures introduced by the Missionaries (A church)

Introduction

20

1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What cultural elements define the KUKU of South Sudan?

2. What was the architecture and building technology of the KUKU like?

3. What planning and design principles used in the traditional built forms of the KUKU can be used to in a

modern setting.

1.4 RESEARCH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1. To understand the cultural elements of the KUKU

2. To understand the architecture and building technology of the KUKU

3. To pick out the salient features of the kuku culture and architecture that can be applied in modern archi-

tecture

1.5 STUDY JUSTIFICATION AND SIGNIFICANCE

South Sudan is still developing, and in the process, solidifying its identity and realizing its potential as a people and country. Architecture is one of the ways in which a country can define itself. There is an obvious variance in how architecture is expressed currently in South Sudan as opposed to how

past generations of of South Sudan expressed their built form (this does not overlook the fact that functions

have changed since the years past). By following the principles laid down by the past generations, we can be

able to adopt the current spatial functions in buildings that reinterprate traditional building styles which were

respective of context and sense of place. The Author has chosen the KUKU to be the community in question.

Their architecture which is quickly being faced off, is a great example an undocumented tribe with authentic

architecture.

With the KUKU of South Sudan, as it is with most traditional architecture, the houses were made of earth

which gives optimum thermal comfort in the harsh climate. The use of straw and other material of low embod-

ied energy did the least damage to the environment.

fig 1.12

A hut in Jajokeji showing. There are a variety of shapes the hut takes

fig 1.11 A hut in Jajokeji showing. There are a variety of shapes the hut takes

Introduction

21

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF STUDY

This study delves into understanding traditional architecture of the KUKU. It involves an analysis of written doc-

umentation on The KUKU of South Sudan as well as a field study of the same. The study is a result of a trip to

Kajo-keji County of Central equatorial state in South Sudan where most of the KUKU speakers are found.

The study is a result of a deep interaction with the people of Kuku which aided in obtaining a broader under-

standing of their ways and practices.

Due to limited written documentation on the KUKU, the author used two weeks at site among the KUKU to gath-

er details ways of life while also understanding how their architecture is influenced by their traditions as well as

climate.

1.7 ORGANIZATION OF STUDY

This research is categorized into 6 chapters.

Chapter 1:

This chapter deals with the introductory aspect of the thesis paper. It gives an introduction into the current

state of architecture in African countries while mentioning the KUKU tribe of South Sudan. This chapter

brushes over the changes African traditional Architecture which others deem primitive has been influenced

over the years by several factors.

The problems of cultural identity and authenticity, the main questions, aims, objectives have been discussed in the chapter in excruciating detail.

Chapter 2:

In chapter, the author undertakes an the KUKU based on existing documentation on the same from different

sources. It involves looking at their migratory history into their present land Kajo-keji, their culture, building

technology, planning and lay outing principles. It describes how the KUKU organized their social, political,

religious and special structure.

Chapter 3:

This chapter describes the steps and procedure the author engaged in collecting relevant data on the topic.

The tools and equipment used has also be documented in this chapter. The author further describes the

presentation and data analysis methods employed.

fig 1.13 Image showing a contemporary structure built in the theme of the traditional house

fig 1.14 Modern structures in South Sudan

Introduction

22

Chapter 4a:

This chapter deals with data that has been gathered in the field. The Author focuses in architectural expres-

sions of the KUKU. There are three case studies that are to be used in attempt to respond to the earlier men-

tioned aims and objectives. This chapter is guided by several constants:

1.Orientation

2.Type of structure/ Building typologies

3.Floor type and arrangement

4.Material

5.External surfaces

6.Openings/ fenestrations

7.Courtyards and outdoor living spaces

8.Roofing structure

Chapter 4b:

This chapter investigates the thermal properties of different typologies of the KUKU people. To verify whether

the houses live up to their high praise of being thermally confortable thus be seen as an inspiration in modern

development.

Chapter 5:

This Chapter summarizes the thesis paper presenting conclusions drawn from the reserach and recommenda-

tions proposed by the author. In this chapter the author conclusively states if and how the objectives of the

study were met.

Introduction

23

The kuku are a mixed-farming Nilotic community who occupy the present Kajo-keji County in central equatori-

al region which is at the south-most part of South Sudan at the Boarder to Uganda (Moyo District). Kajo-keji

County is in the highland tropical region, characterized by fertile agricultural lands. The KUKU are believed to

have occupied this region since the 19th Century, they later during the Sudan civil war went into exile in

Uganda and then returned in the year 2011 when the peace agreement was signed. For this reason, currently

most of the traditions have been forgotten or mixed with that of the Ugandans. This can be noticed in terms of

language, the foods they eat, clothes they wear among others. Kajokeji, especially Wudu center started devel-

oping after the return of the KUKU from exile .

The KUKU believe to be rain makers. They are a minority community, part of a larger Bari speaking communi-

ty. The KUKU are a branch of Bari speakers who are in themselves a branch of Eastern Nilotes.

The Bari speakers tend to have common cultural practices across the community. Above is a chart that repre-

sents the population of each of these sub groups. The KUKU speak a Bari dialect known as KUKU

While in most cases, south Sudan in known to have tall people. The KUKU do not stand out in terms of body stature. They are actually among the shortest of the main tribes in the South of the Nile. The KUKU who are part of the Bari are among the shortest group living on the western part of the Nile, shorter than the Langu and Lotuko who are found on the western side. The lotuko have the tallest people on the eastern side. The Ba-ri speakers are also known to be mesaticephic (of medium head length).

2.1 INTRODUCTION

fig 2.1

Map Of East Africa showing the distribution of Nilotes

fig 2.2 Map showing the final location of the KUKU after the migration

fig 2.4

Chart showing the breakdown of the Nilotes and hence the relationship of the KUKU with the Nilotes

fig 2.3

Map showing the distribution of the KUKU in Ka-jokeji County

Literature review