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Sustainability and heritage define the evolving landscape of Ethiopia’s architecture and tourism. This issue features Gorgora Eco Resort, a groundbreaking project on the shores of Lake Tana that seamlessly integrates traditional Ethiopian craftsmanship, modern luxury, and environmental consciousness. Developed as part of the 'Dine for Ethiopia Initiative', the resort pays homage to the region’s history—once a vibrant fishing port and even a royal retreat—while setting new standards in ecotourism.

With structures built using centuries-old lime mortar techniques, a marina lounge housed in a historic warehouse, and a 700-year-old church preserved on-site, the resort is a living testament to Ethiopia’s architectural legacy.

Architecture is a unified vision, and the architect must remain at its helm. The revised Building Law threatened this by undermining architects' right to oversee their own designs. However, through advocacy, the profession reaffirmed its role in coordinating all aspects of a project.

Historically, architects have integrated emerging specializations—from structural engineering to modern project management—while ensuring design remains the guiding force. As architecture evolves, new disciplines will emerge, but they must support the architect’s vision, not override it. The master builder must lead!

We invite you to read the full article by our contributor, Zeleke Belay. Enjoy!

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Published by Leulseged T, 2025-03-10 21:56:25

Ketema Journal V.29

Sustainability and heritage define the evolving landscape of Ethiopia’s architecture and tourism. This issue features Gorgora Eco Resort, a groundbreaking project on the shores of Lake Tana that seamlessly integrates traditional Ethiopian craftsmanship, modern luxury, and environmental consciousness. Developed as part of the 'Dine for Ethiopia Initiative', the resort pays homage to the region’s history—once a vibrant fishing port and even a royal retreat—while setting new standards in ecotourism.

With structures built using centuries-old lime mortar techniques, a marina lounge housed in a historic warehouse, and a 700-year-old church preserved on-site, the resort is a living testament to Ethiopia’s architectural legacy.

Architecture is a unified vision, and the architect must remain at its helm. The revised Building Law threatened this by undermining architects' right to oversee their own designs. However, through advocacy, the profession reaffirmed its role in coordinating all aspects of a project.

Historically, architects have integrated emerging specializations—from structural engineering to modern project management—while ensuring design remains the guiding force. As architecture evolves, new disciplines will emerge, but they must support the architect’s vision, not override it. The master builder must lead!

We invite you to read the full article by our contributor, Zeleke Belay. Enjoy!

\ \/ / 29 Dialogue of the City Interplay November | December 2024 47// DESIGN SHOULD LEAD Gorgora Eco Resort


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CURRENT IMAGE: HIMICKK 20 NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2024 COVER IMAGE: HIMICKK 09 Editor’s Message Gorgora Eco Resort 20 // ABBA Architects Design Should Lead 47 // Zeleke Belay 42 Supplier List On the Cover Gorgora Eco Resort By ABBA Architects Gorgora, Gondar Image: Himickk Year 5 // № 29 [email protected] www.ketemajournal.com Kazanysh: Largest Architectural Festival Portable School for Palestine // Daniel Waju, Biniyam Bewketu, Frezer Abrha 49 38 \ \/ / 29 Dialogue of the City Interplay November | December 2024 20 // DESIGN SHOULD LEAD Gorgora Eco Resort 14 Dialogue of the City: Interplay // Bethel Tadesse


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SCAN QR TO SUBSCRIBE TO KJ @ketema_journal 5th Year 5th Issue +251 900 57 19 12 www.ketemajournal.com Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The African Building Platform Editorial Advisory Addis Mebratu Maheder Gebremedhin Zeleke Belay Co-Founder Leulseged Tibebu [email protected] Managing Editor Helawi Sewnet [email protected] Art Direction Leulseged Tibebu Writers Nahom Atakilt Contributors Bethel Tadesse Biniyam Bewketu Daniel Waju Frezer Abrha Yoseph Bereded Zeleke Belay Photographers Himickk Marketing Eden Yohannes [email protected] +251 900 57 19 12 Special Thanks Ermias Teshome Michael Getachew Abel Gebretsadik Esmelalem Zewdie Ahmad Ghaith Pier Paolo Elmi


Printed by Ketema Journal Plc Journal designed and proofed for print at Ketema Journal Copyright © 2025 Ketema Journal While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions in this publication. All advertisements are taken in good faith, and the opinions and views contained herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage, and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in review. Leulseged Tibebu Co-Founder & Art Director Yoseph Bereded Samuel Principal Architect, ABBA Architects [email protected] Zeleke Belay Mengistu Principal Architect, Zeleke Belay Architect Plc [email protected] www.zeleke.org Daniel Waju Beyene, Biniyam Bewketu Teshome, Frezer Abrha Tesema Architects at Alebel Desta CAE Bethel Tadesse Begashaw Architect, Sketch Artist Architect at Zeleke Belay Architect [email protected] linkedin.com/in/bethel-tadesse Sustainability and heritage define the evolving landscape of Ethiopia’s architecture and tourism. This issue features Gorgora Eco Resort, a groundbreaking project on the shores of Lake Tana that seamlessly integrates traditional Ethiopian craftsmanship, modern luxury, and environmental consciousness. Developed as part of the 'Dine for Ethiopia Initiative', the resort pays homage to the region’s history—once a vibrant fishing port and even a royal retreat— while setting new standards in ecotourism. With structures built using centuries-old lime mortar techniques, a marina lounge housed in a historic warehouse, and a 700-year-old church preserved on-site, the resort is a living testament to Ethiopia’s architectural legacy. Architecture is a unified vision, and the architect must remain at its helm. The revised Building Law threatened this by undermining architects' right to oversee their own designs. However, through advocacy, the profession reaffirmed its role in coordinating all aspects of a project. Historically, architects have integrated emerging specializations—from structural engineering to modern project management—while ensuring design remains the guiding force. As architecture evolves, new disciplines will emerge, but they must support the architect’s vision, not override it. The master builder must lead! We invite you to read the full article by our contributor, Zeleke Belay. Enjoy!


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14 As I walked past various street-side venues, I frequently heard a sound coming from one particular place—a host speaking into a microphone and calling out random numbers. It wasn't until I got closer that I realized it was a game I used to play. From the outside, I saw elderly people enjoying themselves, spending time with friends, playing, and having fun together. I cherished the idea that they had a space in the city where they could truly be themselves, surrounded by entertainment and companionship. On that day, I came across one of these establishments, inspiring me to capture the moment. Its space extended onto the pedestrian street, where people were seated next to those passing by. Sounds emanated from inside—a mix of random numbers being called out. There were coordinators outside facilitating the activity and inviting us to join the game, which we gladly accepted. Sitting on a bench on the pedestrian street, I watched people and cars go by while the sounds from inside added to the lively atmosphere. Metal plates, painted blue, displayed a bold 5x5 grid at the top labeled "Bingo." Alongside it, we were offered “Coke-head,” signaling the start of the game. As it began, players focused intently, and within just a few minutes, the lively atmosphere returned. Sitting nearby, I noticed that it wasn't just older individuals participating; there were also many young people. The crowd was diverse in age, although it leaned predominantly male. The sight of both youth and the elderly coming together to play Bingo beautifully highlighted the contrast between generations. At first, it took me some time to recognize the different generations spending time together. I initially thought they wouldn’t blend well, but my observations proved me wrong. The interplay of youthful energy and eagerness, paired with the wisdom and patience of the elderly, fostered shared moments of joy. For the younger participants, this interaction provided a chance to learn about patience, tradition, and the value of social connections. Meanwhile, the elderly, often more accustomed to the slower rhythms of life, likely relished the opportunity to share their stories and enjoy the company of younger faces. Together, they bridged the gap of age, offering each other understanding, laughter, and the simple pleasure of a game. Dialogue of the City: Interplay Bethel Tadesse Dialogue of the City is a collection of urban sketches, each with a narrator's commentary. The sketches tell stories with a common theme, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a city and its diverse inhabitants. They showcase the dialogue of the city, the interactions between its inhabitants, the buildings, streets, vehicles, and people.


article Urban Sketch Title: Interplay, Courtesy of Bethel Tadesse 15


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18 SCAN QR TO SUBSCRIBE TO KJ Founded in 1926 in Sandefjord, southeastern Norway, Jotun stands as one of the world's leading paint companies. Its products grace interior and exterior walls in over 100 countries worldwide. Known for a longstanding tradition of innovative research and color development, Jotun is celebrated not only for the visual appeal of its decorative paints but also for the protection and longevity provided by its powder coatings. This reputation has made Jotun the preferred paint brand for many of the world’s iconic buildings. In the Middle East, India, and Africa region, Jotun has 16 production facilities including power with 17 legal entities in 15 countries including Kuwait and Bahrain . Jotun operates in more than 43 countries in MEIA and more than 100 globally. In Ethiopia, Jotun has been active in the decorative segment since 2021, experiencing significant growth across the country. Jotun Ethiopia offers premium products under the Fenomastic and Jotashield brand. The interior product Fenomastic is recognized for its precise colors, exceptional washability, and luxurious finishes. For exterior products, the Jotashield brand is known for its superior anti-carbonation properties, crack-bridging ability, and UV ray protection. Recently Jotun Ethiopia has launched the brand’s new Global Color Card for 2025 which is NUANCES. Jotun's NUANCES colour range ,showcases a range of 30 colours in six families – blue, grey, peach, yellow, beige and green – each with four variations of varying intensity and one colour tone. The collection is designed to serve as a guide and inspiration, guiding people towards nuances. Ideal for the ambiance they want to create. The universal color palette draws on the proven principles of color theory to provide practical and inspiring guidance on how to use layers, monochromes, and variations in intensity to create depth and effect. The collection is showcased with beautiful interiors that add thirty colours to life at home, featuring an oversized artwork specially created by French-born artist Agathy Bergio, which includes many shades in the Jotun 2025 colour collection. We can be reached at Yohannes Fenta +251974843988, Amit Kumar +251966747181 and Office Number +251116671891.


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20 ABBA Architects Gorgora Eco Resort Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Tana in Ethiopia, the Gorgora Eco Resort stands as a testament to the seamless integration of traditional Ethiopian architecture, sustainable design, and modern luxury. This ambitious project, undertaken by contractor BEAEKA, commenced in March 2021 and is set to redefine eco-tourism in the region. The resort, located on a site that was once a bustling fish port and fishing town, now offers a tranquil retreat that honors its historical significance while embracing the future of sustainable hospitality. IMAGE: KETEMA JOURNAL


featured 21 With its breathtaking views, rich cultural heritage, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Gorgora Eco Resort is poised to become a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. Gorgora Eco Resort is strategically situated on a 40-hectare plot characterized by three hills, valleys, and a gently sloping area leading to the lake. The design philosophy revolves around minimal environmental disruption, with the accommodation and facilities organically integrated into the landscape. The presidential suite, perched on the western hill, offers panoramic views of Lake Tana, while the central hill hosts bungalow blocks that blend seamlessly with the natural terrain.


22 IMAGE COURTESY OF : ENA


featured 23 Gorgora Eco Resort is a harmonious blend of Ethiopia’s rich architectural heritage, modern luxury, and sustainable design, offering a unique retreat on the shores of Lake Tana.


24 The northern hill, covered in dense indigenous forest, remains untouched, preserving the area's ecological integrity. The resort's design draws inspiration from Ethiopia's rich architectural heritage. The use of lime mortar stone masonry, a centuries-old technique employed in the construction of churches and the famous Fasilides Castle in Gondar, is a standout feature. This traditional method, which involves burning lime at 900 degrees celsius and fermenting it for six months, ensures durability and a timeless aesthetic. The lime mortar walls, unlike modern cement, grow stronger with age, as evidenced by the centuriesold palaces and churches that still stand today. This approach not only pays homage to Ethiopia's architectural legacy but also ensures the resort's structures will endure for generations. The entrance gate and guard houses are designed to resemble the traditional reed boats used by local fishermen, further emphasizing the resort's connection to local culture and history. These design elements, combined with the use of locally sourced materials and skilled craftsmen, create a sense of authenticity and place that is deeply rooted in Ethiopian tradition. By using traditional lime mortar stone masonry, the resort pays homage to centuries-old Ethiopian construction techniques...


featured 25 The resort offers a wide array of facilities designed to cater to both leisure and business travelers. The presidential suite comprises 27 rooms, including villas with private treatment rooms, kitchens, and chef accommodations. The suite also features an infinity swimming pool and a large decked area, providing additional outdoor event space. The resort also features an additional infinity swiming pool with sand beach by the lake side with 48 bungalow rooms, four family villa blocks, and a reception block with a lobby bar, all-day dining, and administrative offices. A specialty restaurant, designed to resemble a boat protruding from the lake shore, offers a unique dining experience. The spa and gym facility includes traditional Ethiopian treatments, such as the 'Weiba Tis Bet' smoke treatment for women, alongside modern amenities like jacuzzis, saunas, steam, Hammam (turkish bath, hair salon and a gymnasium with an outdoor exercise garden. The spa's design incorporates elements of Ethiopian culture, offering guests a chance to experience traditional wellness practices in a luxurious setting. IMAGE: KETEMA JOURNAL Presidential suit 01


26 [A] MAIN ENTRANCE [B] RECEPTION / ALL DAY DINING [C] SPA AND GYM BLOCK [D] BUNGALOWS [E] AMPHITHEATER [F] SWIMMING POOL [G] CHILDREN PLAYGROUND [H] SPECIALITY RESTAURANT [I] PAVILION [J] CAMPING SITE [K] FRUIT GARDEN [L] SHOPS AND CAFETERIA [M] MARINA LOUNGE [N] FLOATING DOCK [O] BREAK WATER [P] MULTI-PURPOSE HALL [Q] DEBRESINA MARIAM CHURCH [R] MULTI PURPOSE PARKING [S] FISH HATCHERY [T] BACK OF THE HOUSE [U] GROUND TENNIS [V] PLANT NURSERY [W] PRESIDENTIAL LUXURY VILLA [X] MPH KITCHEN [Y] HELIPAD [Z] HILL VIEW SUITE [Z1] FAMILY VILLA [Z2] PEAK VIEW [Z3] SYNDICATE ROOM


featured 27 IMAGE COURTESY OF : ABBA The resort's multi-purpose hall can accommodate up to 550 guests and is equipped with stateof-the-art audio-visual facilities, making it an ideal venue for conferences and events. The marina lounge, housed in a refurbished historic warehouse, provides a relaxing space with tea, coffee, and a photo exhibition of Gorgora's history. The lounge, which protrudes out onto the lake, offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Sustainability is at the heart of Gorgora Eco Resort, with energy-efficient systems, water conservation, & innovative waste management practices protecting Lake Tana’s pristine environment. IMAGE: KETEMA JOURNAL


28


featured 29 IMAGE: KETEMA JOURNAL The resort can be accessed by road from Gondar additionally it offers a helicopters landing pad for guests flying in and for those arriving by boat, the resort features a floating dock, the first of its kind in Gorgora, designed to provide safe and convenient boat parking. An artificial island constructed as a breakwater protects the dock from high waves and is adorned with a fountain synced with lighting, creating a picturesque setting for evening events. The island can also be used for private functions, adding to the resort's versatility as an event venue. The resort’s design seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, offering guests breathtaking views of Lake Tana and a tranquil escape into nature. IMAGE COURTESY OF : ENA


30 IMAGE: KETEMA JOURNAL Living space, presidential suit 01


news 31 Sustainability is at the core of Gorgora Eco Resort's design. Energy efficiency is achieved through the use of LED lighting and energyefficient appliances, ensuring that the resort operates in an environmentally responsible manner. Water conservation is prioritized with lowflow fixtures, and a state-of-the-art vacuum sewer collection system ensures minimal environmental impact. This innovative wastewater management system, new to Ethiopia, protects Lake Tana from contamination and supports resource recovery. The vacuum system, which overcomes the challenges posed by the resort's sloping terrain, is a testament to the project's commitment to cuttingedge technology and environmental stewardship. The resort also features a composting station, plant nursery, and incinerators for paper and butchery waste, promoting on-site waste management. The composting station provides nutrient-rich soil for the resort's gardens, while the plant nursery propagates indigenous trees and vegetables, further enhancing the resort's sustainability efforts. Plastic waste is the only material not processed on-site, highlighting the resort's commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint. Gorgora Eco Resort is not just a luxury destination; it is a celebration of Ethiopia's cultural heritage and natural beauty. The site's historical relevance dates back centuries, having been a relaxing retreat for Ethiopian kings, including King Susenyos. During the Italian occupation of Ethiopia (1935-1941), the area served as a regional headquarters, and the shoreline was home to a large warehouse with a rail line descending into the lake. This historic structure has been preserved and refurbished as the marina lounge, retaining much of its original architectural charm. The resort also features a 700-year-old Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, built entirely of timber, which has been enhanced with ornate domes and traditional thatch roofing. The church, adorned with original paintings depicting biblical stories, serves as an additional tourist attraction, offering guests a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich religious and cultural history. Master bedroom, presidential suit 01 Green roof, Gym and spa block Admin block


32 Gorgora Eco Resort is more than just a luxury destination; it is a celebration of Ethiopia's cultural heritage and natural beauty. By blending traditional construction techniques with modern sustainable practices, the resort offers a unique experience that respects the past while embracing the future. As a pioneer in eco-tourism, the Gorgora Eco Resort sets a new standard for environmentally conscious hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and luxury. The amphitheater pond and the stream above it serve as a breeding ground for the white fish species (Labeobarbus), which are endemic to Lake Tana and known for their unique breeding behavior of migrating upstream.


featured 33 With its breathtaking views, rich cultural heritage, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Gorgora Eco Resort is poised to become a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat, a cultural experience, or a venue for high-profile events, the Gorgora Eco Resort offers it all, wrapped in a sustainable and luxurious package. This project not only enhances Ethiopia's tourism potential but also serves as a model for sustainable development in the hospitality industry worldwide. IMAGE COURTESY OF : ABBA


34 Client: Prime Minister Office General Project Manager: Dr. Fisseha Assefa Project coordinator: ERA & ANRS Gebeta Lehager project Office. Erzik Issa, Negatu Zewdu Design and supervision Consultant: ABBA Architects Plc Architectural Design Team: Yoseph Bereded, Elias Jemal, Tigest Daniel, Rebka Teshome, Zekarias Wakene, Mahlet Elias Resident Supervission Team: Abayneh Kelemu, Ambrose King, Ephrem Girma, Andualem Mengistu


trending 35 Structural Design: Strut Engineering, Sofonias Bezabeh Electrical Design & IT: Meba Engineering : Mengistu Bayolign Interior Design: Maurzio Rosa Graphics & Signage: Artist Geta mekonen Gateway boat Art: Artist Bekele Mekonnen Quality manager: Addis Adugna Contractor: Beaeka General Trading Plc Mechanical Design: Dr Eng. Demiss Alemu Sanitary Design: Yesuf Esleman Landscape Design: Holger Schroder Landscape Contractor: ETOILE General Contractor


36 Design, Supply & installation of DATA CENTER, FIRE ALARM SYSTEM, PUBLIC ADDRESS, SOUND SYSTEM FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEM, FIRE SUPPRESSION, ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM CCTV SYSTEM, NURSE-CALL SYSTEM, NETWORK & TELEPHONE SYSTEM VIDEO DOOR PHONE SYSTEM, LIGHT CONTROL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM


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38 How can we design a portable structure that embodies identity, security, and permanence in a volatile environment? Our design journey leads us to the heart of Palestine's Bedouin tradition, where necessity and craftsmanship converge into their iconic tent design, a lightweight structure of woven goat or camel hair, offering heat insulation and water resistance. Inspired by this ancient wisdom, we designed a school that transforms from a compact bundle into a fully functional space whispering the insight of ancient nomads who carried their homes within their hands. Their tent consists of two primary elements: a structure made from tensioned rope and a cover crafted from animal wool. Drawing inspiration from this tradition, we developed a prototype featuring an interlocking lightweight wooden panel structure paired with foldable fabric panel covers, reflecting the spirit of Bedouin heritage. Easy to assemble and transport, this design can be upgraded into a permanent structure using durable materials. It is a flexible system that adapts and evolves with changing needs. > Daniel Waju Biniyam Bewketu Frezer Abrha Portable School for Palestine Architecture Competition 2nd Prize Winner www.schoolsforpalestine.com


trending 39 Legend 1. Access 2. Parking 3. Class rooms 4. Multipurpose space 5. Toilets 6. Office 7. Clinic 8. Olive garden 9. Amphitheater 10. Playground


40 Inspired by Palestine’s terracing culture known as "Musatahāt", each volume is placed to follow the land’s contour, creating a harmonious balance of cut and fill. This approach minimizes costs and creates cascading steps between the volumes that blur the boundary between interior and exterior spaces. When the walls gently fold together, this space becomes a seamless extension of the interior, inviting nature's rhythms to join the flow of life within. At the site's top, an olive garden offers a resting space, with ancient roots symbolizing Palestine's resilience and deep connection to the land. Each volume has modular dimensions consisting of interlocking structural wooden panels and foldable surfaces. The wall and Roof are arranged in a semi-folded position, similar to a folded sheet of paper (Origami), which strengthens the surface while reducing building weight, enabling it to stand independently without deep foundations. The translucent panels of the wall invite soft, dappled sunlight to filter through, echoing the gentle glow that permeates a Bedouin tent. Above the interlocking wooden beams, a foldable wool panel rests on it. These fabric-clad volumes, with a solid appearance, provide a sense of security for children in conflict zones. The folded wall’s aerodynamic design resists desert winds, while passive ventilation keeps the interior cool, ensuring comfort. Our design is not merely a building—it’s a sanctuary that fosters learning, resilience, and a connection to heritage. Roof fabric (Camel wool) Foldable roof structure Foldable wall panels Frame structure Foundation Same interlocking technique used for the structure is also used for the furnitures. Exploded 3D Furniture Design


trending 41


42 [email protected] [email protected] www.lessoethiopia.com 251 946 22 20 00 251 966 20 51 50 251 966 20 51 5 1 251 966 20 51 53 251 909 94 54 55 251 909 94 54 56 Headquarters: Urael, Afework Building 8th Floor Showroom 1: Urael Afework Building Ground Floor Showroom 2: Around Signal, Signal Commercial Mall 1st Floor


featured 43 We are delighted to introduce ourselves as LESSO Ethiopia, a distinguished leader in the supply of high-quality pipe systems in Ethiopia. With over 10 years of experience in the Ethiopian market, our company has been at the forefront of importing and distributing premium PP-R, U-PVC, HDPE, and Conduit pipes and Fittings, sourced from LESSO China, one of the world’s most renowned and trusted manufacturers in the industry. Our decade-long journey has been built on a foundation of reliability, quality, and customer satisfaction. Thanks to your unwavering trust and support, we have not only solidified our position as a market leader, but we’ve also continuously worked to bring the best in pipe systems to Ethiopia. As part of our commitment to providing even greater value to our esteemed customers, we are proud to announce a significant expansion of our operations: LESSO China in collaboration with LESSO Ethiopia now manufactures PP-R, U-PVC, HDPE, and Conduit pipes and Fittings locally in Ethiopia. This exciting development allows us to offer you even more competitive pricing, faster delivery times, and the same high standards of quality that you have come to expect from our products. We are confident that this expansion will strengthen our ability to meet your needs even more efficiently, while continuing to deliver the durability, performance, and cost-effectiveness you trust in every product we provide. At LESSO Ethiopia, we are committed to offering you not just products, but complete solutions that ensure the success and longevity of your projects. Whether you are working on residential, commercial, or industrial projects, our locally produced pipes and fittings are designed to meet the highest standards of quality and innovation, ensuring a reliable, sustainable, and cost-efficient solution for every application. We would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks for your long-standing partnership with us. Your continued trust and loyalty are the pillars that have enabled us to grow and evolve. We are deeply grateful for your business and look forward to further strengthening our collaboration in the years ahead. Thank you for choosing LESSO Ethiopia as your preferred supplier. We are excited about the future and eager to support your projects with our high-quality products and unmatched customer service.


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suppliers 47 Is it not strange that architects had to defend their right to manage their very own creation? That was what has happened with the revised draft Building Law. Architects right to oversee their design development and its implementation was eroded in the draft. But when we argued in parliament that the architect should coordinate, they listened to us. The reason is simple. Because it was the plain truth. Who would care about the child more than the mother? Architecture is one whole. At one time this whole we call architecture was designed and built by one entity, all in the person of the architect. I am talking about the master builder. Later, when he knew that the construction aspect of a building could be delegated, the architect passed the construction and focused on the design alone. This marked the birth of the contractor as an independent trade. At that time, the architect did everything about design, including the engineering aspect. The profession which we come to know today as structural engineering came in to picture in the late 19th century, a little more than about 100 years ago. Structural design was one of the first specialized aspect of a building design that the architect delegated. The rest of the technologies involved in a building were then managed by the architect himself. More professions have emerged since then such as sanitary and electrical design. And more will continue to emerge in the future. Yet, all shall remain part of the whole and within the domain of the architect. Architecture is ancient. We have in record the first architect known by name as early as around 2700 BC, Imhotep, who designed the stepped pyramid for Pharaoh Djoser. In recent years a new profession has emerged, specializing in management. There are discussions around that if the role of the architect to coordinate among the engineering professionals shall be overtaken by this new management profession. It can’t be. Management is just one aspect of the building process that the architect handled. As it was true for the other professions mentioned above, it shall be another new specialization, another new trade to be delegated branching from the whole. If at all, management is for the vision; it cannot be above the vision. It shall come as one additional branch that would be coordinated by the architect. No doubt more branches will emerge in the future with new technologies and sophistication of life. But all shall remain to be guided by one vision, by the architect who originates the design of a building project. Design Should Lead //Zeleke Belay, Architect


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suppliers 49 From February 6 to 8, the new Galiasgar Kamal Theater in Kazan welcomed more than 45,000 guests for the Kazanysh Architectural Forum, while an additional 17,000 people joined the event via online broadcasts. The forum featured over 400 speakers from 23 countries, including Russia, China, Brazil, India, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and others. Notably, the event was attended by mayors and 39 chief architects from BRICS+ cities, making it a truly global gathering of urban development leaders. Over the past three years, Kazanysh has grown to become the largest architectural forum in the world, surpassing previous records. In 2023, the Le Marché International des Professionnels de l’Immobilier in Cannes attracted 22,500 guests, while the Kazanysh Forum doubled that number. Other major international urban festivals, such as the AIA Conference on Architecture in San Francisco (2023) and the International Union of Architects (UIA) event in São Paulo (2023), drew 16,000 and 15,000 attendees, respectively. The AIA Conference in Washington (2024) saw over 10,000 participants, further highlighting the unprecedented scale of Kazanysh. The annual Kazanysh Forum is organized under the initiative of Kazan Mayor Ilsur Metshin, with the support of Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov. The event is coordinated by the Kazan City Development Institute, and the theme for the 2025 forum is “Unity in Diversity.” What began four years ago as an educational platform for Russian architects has now evolved into the world’s largest forum on architecture and urbanism. The opening day of the forum saw 18,000 visitors at the new Galiasgar Kamal Theater, with the total number of guests exceeding 45,000 over the three-day event. The forum was a hub of inspiration and discovery, offering attendees a platform for professional growth and networking. Ilsiyar Tukhvatullina, Chief Architect of Kazan, described the event as “not just a forum, but a springboard to new opportunities and a bridge to strong professional connections,” emphasizing the role of Kazanysh in showcasing the strength and beauty of Kazan as a global city. Kazanysh; Largest Architectural Festival in the World


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