The Pan-African Biennale (PAB) is poised to make a significant mark on the global architectural landscape with the announcement of its participants for the inaugural 2026 edition. This groundbreaking event, envisioned as a long-term platform for African spatial practices, will convene in Nairobi with a diverse lineup of talents. It aims to shift the narrative around African architecture, moving it from the periphery to the center of global discourse, fostering innovation and resilience in design across the continent.
Pan-African Biennale Set to Transform Architectural Narrative in Nairobi
In a momentous announcement on May 28, 2026, the Pan-African Biennale (PAB), under the visionary direction of Omar Degan, revealed the distinguished lineup of participants for its inaugural event. This historic occasion is slated to unfold from September 7 to 11, 2026, at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre, nestled in the vibrant heart of Nairobi, Kenya. Conceived as the premier continental architecture biennale, PAB is dedicated to showcasing and elevating spatial practices originating from and thriving within the diverse landscapes of Africa.
The Biennale’s foundational curatorial theme, “Shifting the Center: From Fragility to Resilience,” boldly redefines Africa’s role in global architectural conversations. Rather than being merely a source of inspiration or a peripheral subject, the continent is positioned as a pivotal contributor to cutting-edge spatial knowledge and forward-thinking design methodologies. This theme is further explored through three incisive thematic strands: “Land Under Pressure” (addressing Climate Change), “Inherited Knowledge” (delving into Vernacular Intelligence), and “Worlds to Come” (envisioning African Futures).
The official selection of participants is a testament to the Biennale's commitment to geographical breadth and disciplinary diversity. It encompasses an impressive roster of architects, innovative studios, dedicated research collectives, and skilled material practitioners from across the continent. Notable participants include Djamel Klouche from Algeria, Banga Coletivo representing Angola, and the dynamic trio of Larry Tchogninou, Olufemi Hinson Yovo, and Armel Sagbohan from Benin. The list further expands to include esteemed practices such as Moralo Designs, Association La Voûte Nubienne, Remesha Design Lab, Ramos Castellano Arquitectos, and Barla Barla Architectes, alongside Archi Infini & Partenaires and Afrostudio.
Beyond established names, the Biennale proudly embraces emerging voices and collectives deeply engaged with critical issues like heritage preservation, sustainable vernacular construction, and pioneering environmental research. This includes entities such as Megawra – BEC, Hive Earth, Raas Architects, MASS Design Group, and Design Without Borders. The interdisciplinary scope is further enriched by contributors like Nu Goteh, Aboubakar Fofana, Daar Studio, and Lemon Pebble, who bridge the realms of architecture, design, craft, and spatial storytelling. From the Comoros to Zimbabwe, the Biennale brings together a rich tapestry of perspectives, ensuring that the selected practices are firmly rooted in local realities while simultaneously addressing universal concerns such as climate change, rapid urbanization, evolving material cultures, and future spatial imaginaries.
Omar Degan, the visionary Founder and Artistic Director, eloquently articulated the Biennale’s profound mission: "The Pan-African Biennale does not seek to correct exclusion from within existing frameworks. It establishes a new one, one in which Africa is the author of its own spatial knowledge, its own architectural discourse, its own futures. For the first time in history, spatial practices from across the continent convene under a single curatorial framework built from within. The center has always been here."
Registered in Kigali, the Pan-African Biennale functions as an independent institution steadfastly dedicated to architecture, the built environment, and spatial practices across Africa. Designed as an enduring platform that transcends a mere exhibition, the initiative integrates exhibitions, scholarly publications, engaging public programming, and meticulous archival production. Nairobi serves as the inaugural host, marking the genesis of what is destined to become a seminal, recurring continental event.
The launch of the Pan-African Biennale aligns with ongoing global dialogues on urban development and resilience. Recently, the World Urban Forum 13 concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan, on May 22, after six days of intensive discussions on "Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities." These conversations are set to continue at other significant architectural events, including the UIA World Congress of Architects 2026 in Barcelona, scheduled from June 28 to July 2, 2026, and the Tallinn Architecture Biennale 2026, curated by Stuudio TÄNA, Mark Aleksander Fischer, and Mira Samonig, opening from September 9 through November 30, 2026. The Pan-African Biennale stands as a crucial new voice in this global chorus, advocating for an inclusive and forward-looking architectural future.
The launch of the Pan-African Biennale represents a monumental step towards decolonizing architectural discourse and celebrating the rich, diverse spatial knowledge emanating from Africa. It underscores the critical importance of fostering platforms where African voices can lead the conversation on future urbanism, environmental challenges, and innovative design. This event is not just an exhibition; it is a declaration that Africa is not merely a recipient of architectural trends but a powerful, creative force driving them. As a reader, I find this initiative incredibly inspiring, highlighting the continent's untapped potential and its crucial role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable global built environment. It challenges us to look beyond established centers and recognize the profound contributions that emerge when diverse perspectives are given a prominent stage.
