Rammed earth techniques utilised for new sports & education complex

Construction is underway on the new campus for El Cambio Academy, a youth football and education initiative in Masaka, Uganda, funded by Tenderstream member Henning Larsen and the Ramboll Foundation. The 10,258 sq m masterplan designed by Henning Larsen includes primary and secondary school buildings, a gymnasium, male and female dormitories, and a variety of flexible indoor-outdoor learning spaces. A full-size football pitch and dedicated playground sit at the heart of campus life, connected by a walking trail that loops the site to encourage movement and community connection. 

The buildings will be constructed using local materials such as clay, wood, and rammed earth techniques. The outer walls are built with 400mm earth bricks, repurposed from soil excavated on site and finished with clay plaster to enhance durability and thermal performance. Inside, walls are made from woven wooden stick screens coated with adobe, while slanted roofs of papyrus screens, corrugated sheets, and timber rafters, ensure acoustic comfort and natural climate regulation.

In the warm and humid Ugandan climate, natural ventilation is key to comfort. Inspired by traditional methods, the building use passive solutions, with dormitories featuring discreet openings that let in fresh air and soft daylight while maintaining a sense of privacy. Concrete is only used for foundational elements such as slabs and plinths that elevate the buildings above ground level, ensuring resilience during the rainy season.

When complete, the new El Cambio Academy campus will welcome 60 children aged 9–16. Full scholarships will be offered to all students, combining academic education with football training and mentorship. The first phase is made possible by 800,000 DKK in funding from the Ramboll Foundation and an additional 250,000 DKK from Henning Larsen.

Jakob Strømann-Andersen, director of innovation and sustainability and partner at Henning Larsen, stated: “El Cambio shows how local materials, and collaboration can lead to resilient, adaptable design. By working closely with Ugandan partners, we’ve created a campus that responds to both climate and community – and can grow over time.”

Lucy Nordberg

Tenderstream Head of Research

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