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Ksar Tafilelt is the result of a strong commitment to ecological conservation and the safeguarding of Algeria’s architectural heritage, recognized as part of the world’s universal heritage, while also embracing modernity. This project has become a model and reference in the field of heritage preservation, successfully combining modern living comfort, bioclimatic design, and environmental sustainability through the use of locally sourced construction materials.
It focuses on the development of a ksar (traditional compound) comprising over a thousand housing units, designed according to architectural and bioclimatic standards. It harmoniously blends traditional architecture with sustainable development, placing special emphasis on environmental protection and quality of life.
This ksar, which adheres to the principles of sustainable development, stands as an outstanding example of bioclimatic construction. It integrates traditional design with ecological principles and serves as an inspiring model for environmental protection.
Ksar Tafilelt also promotes eco-friendly practices such as efficient water use, wastewater recycling, and waste recovery, making it a benchmark for sustainable urban development in Algeria.

Awards :COP22 Green Building & City Solutions Awards (2016), Energy Globe National Award (2020) – For bioclimatic design, water recycling, and solar-powered infrastructure, Arab Environment League Award (2014) For its environmental preservation efforts and International Green Cities Award – Energy Globe Award (2023, Norway) – Honoring its global leadership in sustainable city development.

【Reflection】
This pioneering project was presented as a benchmark for sustainable urban development, social solidarity, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental stewardship. At the Algeria Pavilion, Dr. Ahmed Nouh introduced the Tafilelt housing initiative, which has garnered strong international interest as an integrated, community-led model for sustainable living.

Located in the Algerian Sahara, Tafilelt demonstrates how traditional Saharan architecture can be harmonised with modern sustainability principles to create affordable and climate-resilient housing. The design includes narrow alleys, whitewashed facades, and passive cooling systems that naturally regulate temperature while reducing energy consumption—features that particularly captured the interest of visitors.

The project’s foundation lies in the Ibadi principle of mutual aid. Spearheaded by the Amidoul Foundation, Tafilelt promotes a participatory development model where residents are directly involved in planning and maintaining their neighbourhoods. Each resident is responsible for planting trees, and children participate in environmental education programmes that foster intergenerational awareness and engagement.

The initiative also integrates holistic ecological management practices such as solar power generation, water and waste recycling, and even animal husbandry—exemplified by a community zoo where food waste is reused for feeding animals. These practices reinforce the project’s circular sustainability philosophy.

During the Q&A session, participants commended the project’s ability to merge ancestral knowledge with innovative environmental technologies. Discussions also touched on the project's growing appeal as a cultural tourism destination, and the importance of balancing heritage preservation with economic development.

Tafilelt was ultimately recognised as a scalable, inclusive model that addresses both social and environmental challenges. It showcased how a community-rooted, eco-conscious approach can offer concrete, real-world solutions for sustainable urban development in arid regions and beyond.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
The Tafilelt project, as showcased at Expo 2025 Osaka, is expected to serve as a reference point for future policy development and academic research across fields such as architecture, urban planning, environmental studies, and education.

The archived video of the session is now available and continues to serve as a valuable educational tool. It has attracted interest from scholars and practitioners internationally, with multiple theses and publications already analysing Tafilelt’s innovative blend of tradition, sustainability, and social impact.
Looking ahead, further efforts will focus on building international networks to share knowledge and replicate aspects of the Tafilelt model in other regions facing housing and environmental challenges. Partnerships with educational institutions and local authorities are also under consideration to adapt its environmental education programmes for wider use.

The project’s success reinforces the relevance of community-driven urban development, especially in contexts of depopulation and rural revitalisation. Leveraging lessons learned through Expo engagement, Algeria continues to contribute to the global dialogue on inclusive, culturally grounded, and environmentally responsible development.