20 21 Factors Influencing Adoption of Interlocking Stabilized

20 21 Factors Influencing Adoption of Interlocking Stabilized Soil Blocks (ISSBs) B. Kwikiriza 1*, B. Tushabomwe 1 1 Hydro Concepts (U) Ltd, P. O. Box 11162, Kampala, Uganda *Correspondence: bkwikiriza@hydroconceptsug. com +256 785 959050 2/13/2022 1

Kiln 20 21 Background fired bricks are the most common earthen masonry techniques. However they promote deforestation, clay extraction, and air pollution ISSBs, an alternative construction material is 30% cost effective, 80% stronger, and eco friendly Photo Credit: Makiga Engineering Above: Artisans use a block press to 2/13/2022 make ISSBs Source: Internet Above: Bricks being burnt in a 2 kiln

Despite 20 21 Rationale being an appropriate and sustainable technology that needs to be adopted widely in housing and sanitation, ISSB has failed to take foothold over the years The study sought to establish factors that have caused the technology to remain small scale, hindering effective implementation of ISSBs for shelter and sanitation in Uganda 2/13/2022 3

The Objectives 20 21 main objective of this study was to examine factors affecting the use of ISSBs in improving shelter and sanitation in Uganda The specific objectives of the study were: To assess the extent to which access to training by individuals influences the implementation of ISSBs To determine the extent to which cost/affordability by individuals influences the implementation of ISSBs To ascertain whether perceptions on quality of 2/13/2022 4 ISSBs by individuals affects its effective

20 21 Methods/Approach The study employed both primary and secondary data collection methods i. e. 1. Literature review from other promoters of the technology 2. KIIs with local contractors and masons 3. Informal interviews with clients 4. FGDs with home owners The data collected was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively and presented graphically 2/13/2022 5

The 20 21 Results/Findings study found that cost/affordability, durability, availability (skills & equipment) and acceptability by clients were the common reasons for material choice 2/13/2022 6

The Results/Findings 20 21 study found out that in areas where the technology was made available, both through skills training and equipment, there was marked increase in adoption of ISSBs It was also observed that while affordability increased adoption, the lack of sensitization about such a benefit, greatly affected the uptake of the technology Findings established that social attitudes point to stabilized soil as an inferior technology meant for 2/13/2022 7

The 20 21 Summary/Conclusions study concluded that, it is crucial for promoters to understand the local perception towards the ISSB technology and focus on educating the public on the benefits of the technology as a first step There is a need to elevate the profile of the technology. It is increasingly categorized as a building material for low-cost housing and consequently mistaken as low-quality. Using the technology in more ostentatious projects will help to challenge these assumptions 2/13/2022 8

Recommendations 20 21 Introduction of ISSB technology into vocational training colleges will increase adoption of the technology and ensure its equitable use both in the near and far future Awareness creation to disseminate the benefits of the technology further as an appropriate technology for sustainable housing, mainly affordability and eco friendliness Promoting the use of ISSB technology in more ostentatious projects to showcase its qualities, and 2/13/2022 9 challenge perceptions on its quality

Hydro 20 21 Acknowledgements Concepts Uganda Limited UN Habitat Technology for Tomorrow (T 4 T) Haileybury Youth Trust (HYT) Positive Planet Photo Credit: UN Habitat Good Earth Trust (GET) Smart Havens Africa (SHA) Amref Health Africa CARITAS Kasana/Luweero Program Makiga Engineering Photo Credit: Makiga Engineering 2/13/2022 10