Improving housing in Malawi, Africa through sustainable strategies in efforts to create a break in the cycle of poverty.

Malawi, Africa, is among the world's poorest countries with almost three-fourths of the population living under the poverty line. Much of Malawi’s rapidly growing population resides in “slums”. Until the people’s need for safe and affordable housing is met, Malawi will be unable to escape its cycle of poverty. Biomimicry takes advantage of thousands of years of evolution to utilize the most effective and efficient methods of achieving thermal comfort, protection from the elements, and access to clean water. Utilizing passive design strategies reduces the energy demand and costs associated with construction of, and residence in, dwellings.