Three young Ethiopian architects — Daniel Waju, Binyam Bekehetu, and Fraser Abraha — have earned international acclaim for their innovative design of a mobile emergency school for Khan al-Ahmar, a vulnerable village in the West Bank, Palestine. Their project, which won the silver medal in a global competition hosted by Archstorming, highlights the creativity and perseverance of Ethiopia’s rising design talent.
The trio began their careers at Alebel Deshta Architects in Addis Ababa, mentored by the acclaimed Gomtu Nedafi Alebel. Despite their youth, they bring both professionalism and warmth to their work, often brainstorming over tea near Mexico Square — a quiet café that has become their informal studio.
Their award-winning design came after years of setbacks. From Zambia to India, they participated in several international competitions, frequently reaching initial stages but falling short of awards. Undeterred, they honed their skills and vision with each attempt. Their breakthrough came with a tent-like, foldable school — a portable structure that could be quickly assembled, dismantled, and relocated during conflict.
Driven by deep research into Palestinian culture, restrictions under occupation, and local materials, they created a school that is not only functional but deeply symbolic. Constructed without metal — which is banned in Palestinian construction — and adaptable to harsh conditions, the design stood out for its cultural sensitivity and practicality.
“This win is a result of persistence,” says Binyam. “We failed many times before we got here.”
For these architects, the silver medal is more than a trophy — it’s a call to recognize the potential of young African talent in global design conversations. Their story is one of resilience, collaboration, and the belief that bold ideas can emerge from anywhere.
source: BBC News Amharic /26 ሚያዚያ 2025