No. No. No. Norman
Road construction in Uganda, funded by World Bank.
Norman Foster, one of the “godfathers” of contemporary architecture, has proposed a project in the name of humanity. Foster’s drone airport project seeks to bring supplies to remote areas of Africa lacking basic roads and infrastructure. This concept uses all the “correct” language to assist humanitarian needs, but it does not take into adequate account the way in which provincial areas maintain balance and harmony. It is admirable to want to outsmart the world and its limitations, but certain aspects of architecture must take in consideration the aspects existing on the ground first. This context on the ground must be 100% researched and inherently understood before the alien airport arrives and is plopped like a house on a monopoly board. Cited in the press release by Foster+Partners, the intentions behind the drone airport are of a good nature but here is list of practical questions.
WHO is the entity on the ground, in charge of airport operations, receiving these supplies and then determining a distribution method/system?
HOW logical is it to expect high-valued drone goods will be secure once they touch the ground?
WHAT happens if groups looking to make a profit seize the airport or threaten its daily operations?
WILL the local community develop dependence for this faceless long-distance arm and as a result will they stop seeking their own long-term solutions?
King of the Mountain - drone airport, remote village and car stuck in the mud
The modern world has advanced enough to navigate beyond the limitations of roads but the significance of building a simple road is more critical then we understand. The construction of a road is a tangible way to receive necessary resources and more importantly, lays the ground work for many needed activities for the future. It allows people to meet and interact, giving communities the choice towards possibility that is beyond the imperial hand. If these communities can build the drone airport, a beautifully vaulted brick modulated structure, then the construction of a road will be a piece of cake. A simple road does not seem glamorous to the “world of architecture” but it must not be overlooked. It can make a significant impact on the long-term sustainability of a community. We must not forget there is gravity and empowerment in the most basic building blocks of humanity. Let’s not forget that they are the same building blocks that have led the modern world towards its daily advancements. Let’s work towards enabling a future for these communities to discover and build their own roads.