Revitalizing Al-Khalifa: A community-Driven Transformation
Integrating Sustainable Waste Management and Public Space Transformation in Cairo, Egypt
Location: Cairo, Egypt Partner: Megawra-Built Environment Collective Budget: 68,650 USD Theme: Economy and livelihoods
Conservation map of al-Khalifa Street Area. (Mansour et al,. 2020)
Nestled in historic Cairo, Al-Khalifa, a working-class neighbourhood, is not just a home to 20,000 residents but a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Despite its rich history and vibrant community, Al-Khalifa faced numerous challenges, including socio-economic disparities and underdeveloped public spaces.
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Cairo Governorate and the Athar Lina project by Megawra-Built Environment Collective embarked on an ambitious journey to rejuvenate Al-Khalifa. Between 2018 and 2020, they formulated a Conservation and Management Plan to enhance residents' lives while preserving the neighbourhood's intrinsic heritage.
A focal point of this regeneration was the Al-Khalifa Market. As the heart of the community, the market's revitalization was crucial. Over 300 locals, including youths and vendors, engaged in 56 participatory activities to reimagine a safer, more accessible, and thriving market. The novel use of Minecraft in a 'Block by Block' workshop empowered the youth, like 17-year-old Malak and 15-year-old Youssef, to voice their vision for the market's future.
Consultation workshops with the community © Omar Koussi
“I’m now more confident that if I have an idea, there are ways and tools like Minecraft that can better express it, and I can find people to help turn it into reality”
Al Khalifah Minecraft model in Cairo, Egypt
The collaborative efforts bore fruit with significant improvements in the market's infrastructure and services. The community's input was instrumental in infusing the market's design with local heritage elements. Upgraded vending stands, improved lighting, and rehabilitated building facades rejuvenated the market's visual identity. Additionally, the implementation of effective wayfinding systems enhanced the visitor experience.
Market design
Beyond physical transformations, the project also addressed environmental sustainability. Training sessions and pilot projects on waste management, particularly on organic waste composting, were conducted with local women, demonstrating a commitment to ecological responsibility.
Market condition and activities before interventions in May 2022. © Hadeer Dahab
The impact of these changes resonates beyond physical improvements. A street vendor's sentiment, "I'm very happy today that someone cared to make sure our voice is heard," demonstrates the project's success in fostering community engagement and ownership.
