Diébédo Francis Kéré: The first African to win architecture's top award

FRANCIS KÉRÉ
FRANCIS KÉRÉ

Burkino Faso-born architect, Diébédo Francis Kéré, has become the first African to win the prestigious Pritzker Prize, which is often referred to as the Nobel Prize of architecture. His highly esteemed work, including permanent and temporary structures, has been erected in his country of birth, but also across Africa, Europe and the United States.

Mr Kéré, 56, was elated to receive what is considered architecture's most renowned award, describing himself as the "happiest man on the planet".

But his decades-long journey to the top of his field was far from straightforward, with limited opportunities in his village.

Editor's Comment
Don't let FMD outbreak drag on

Acting Agriculture Minister, Edwin Dikoloti, is right in saying opening an export-ready facility whilst Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is still spreading would risk getting the whole country blacklisted before a single carcass leaves the door.A ban like that would break the already stressed nation. So, the postponement, painful as it is, is the right thing to do. The local economy is being squeezed from both ends. FMD has already slammed the door...

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