From Principles to Practice DIGITAL

Key outcomes GOVERNANCE RICA embeds a collaborative, multistake- holder approach that integrates government support, philanthropic investment and community engagement. The partnership between the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, the Govern- ment of Rwanda and MASS Design Group ensures quality, place-specific processes led by skilled teams. Additionally, RICA trains local workers – including 16% women – in sustainable con- struction, promoting transparency, capacity-building and long-term participatory governance in decision-making, management and stewardship. The institute operates with a long-term vision, ensur - ing governance structures and knowledge transfer remain resilient beyond initial implementation. ENVIRONMENT RICA contributes to sustainability by prior - itizing conservation, biodiversity restoration and carbon sequestration, with the goal of achieving operational carbon positivity by 2032 and full climate positivity by 2038. The project preserves ecological corridors, restores degraded land- scapes and integrates agroforestry practices to support regenerative farming. Powered by off-grid solar energy, the campus also employs sustainable water treatment systems and incorporates durable, locally sourced materials with low environmental footprints. Passive cooling techniques, natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting enhance comfort and resilience while minimizing resource consump- tion. RICA’s environmental strategy aligns with Rwanda’s national sustainability goals and serves as a model for future rural develop- ment projects. CONTEXT RICA’s campus design is deeply integrated with its natural and cultural surroundings, embracing Rwanda’s agricultural heritage through vernacular materials and regional construction techniques. The use of locally sourced stone, earth and timber aligns with the site’s landscape, ensuring that new development harmonizes with existing spatial and ecological char - acteristics. The project respects and enhances the region’s rural character while setting a new standard for educational and agricul- tural facilities in the country. SENSE OF PLACE RICA creates a strong identity by cele- brating local craftsmanship, incorporating handcrafted furniture and fittings by Rwandan artisans, and embrac- ing traditional construction methods. The design emphasizes sensory experience, spatial harmony and a deep connection between people and place. The architecture balances functionality with aesthetic quality, using natural materials and organic forms that blend with the surrounding landscape. The campus reflects the country’s agroecological traditions, strengthening emotional con- nections between students, faculty and the land. By embedding cultural and agricultural practices into its design, RICA nurtures attachment to place and supports the social, psychological and cul- tural needs of its community. 74 75Stakeholders RICA’s faculty and student body Local communities Funding ▪Howard G. Buffett Foundation ▪Government of Rwanda ▪Additional funding from MASS Design Group Construction ▪MASS.Build ▪Costwise Contractors ▪Remote Group Owner Rwanda Institute for Conservation AgricultureClimate-resilient agricultural practices – technical and financial support The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and other international agencies Training in sustainable construction methods, and materials and certification International Green Building CouncilsDay-to-day management Local management teams with rotating leadership structures to ensure sustainability and local ownership Ongoing technical support MASS Design Group Integration into Rwanda’s national agricultural strategy The Rwanda Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources Monitoring and compliance The Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA)Design MASS Design Group Civil engineering Arup Environmental systems design Transsolar Agricultural consulting Curry Willey Associates Specifications and technical writing Conspectus Quantity surveying MEW Consultants, ArabellaCONSULTANTS ADDITIONAL SUPPORTONGOING MANAGEMENTIwan Baan