Kaira Looro is one of the most renowned international architecture competitions for students. The Balouo Salo charity organization annually organizes this competition focusing on themes of emergency, development, and solidarity. The words "Kaira Looro" are from the Mandinka language, meaning "architecture for peace". Through humanitarian architecture, the competition aims to build solidarity and raise awareness of humanitarian issues in the international community, and improve living conditions in disadvantaged communities.

The 2025 edition of the Kaira Looro Competition invites architects, students, designers, engineers, and young professionals from all around the world to design a Nursery School in rural Sub-Saharan Africa. The lack of quality educational facilities in these areas creates a significant barrier to children's development. The main purpose is to create a safe and inclusive environment that can accommodate children's well-being and development.

The use of local materials, sustainable construction practices, and community involvement in the building process are all important considerations in this process. The projects are expected to create both a vibrant, welcoming space for children and a reference model of sustainable development for the local community. Participants should also consider the challenges of building in rural areas, as the lack of skilled labor and heavy machinery poses significant obstacles.

Check here for further information. Toffu is proud to be a part of the Kaira Looro project. This is not only a design challenge but a way to contribute to sustainability, creativity, and community empowerment. We look forward to seeing your projects and innovative solutions!

Key Dates

• Early Registration: January 10 – February 28, 2025
• Regular Registration: March 1 – April 9, 2025
• Late Registration: April 10 – May 15, 2025
• Submission Deadline: June 10, 2025
• Winners Announcement: July 8, 2025

Prizes

• 1st Prize: €5,000 + Internship at Kengo Kuma & Associates (Japan) + Project realization
• 2nd Prize: €2,000 + Internship at Benedetta Tagliabue EMBT (Spain), Amanda Levete Architects (London), or SBGA Blengini Ghirardelli (Milan)
• 3rd Prize: €1,000 + Internship opportunities with EMBT, ALA, or SBGA
• 2 Honorable Mentions: €100
• 10 Special Mentions & 35 Finalists