Regional Centre of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and eHealth, Kigali, Le Rwanda

The University of Rwanda Center of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering aims to be a model for biomedical innovation and engineering throughout Africa. The project seeks to boost the East African regional integration strategy in science and technology, service delivery, and expansion of labor markets.
The seven-story building’s innovative and unique facade draws upon the local craft tradition of ‘imigongo’ for its pattern.

Transsolar provided guidance to incorporate passive design into the building, including daylighting and natural ventilation. The upper part of the building relies entirely on natural ventilation for maintaining air quality and thermal comfort, using techniques to maximize cross ventilation, exterior shading, and thermal mass. This design results in a building that is extremely energy efficient, resilient, and comfortable, and appropriate for the moderate Kigali climate.