Building sustainable homes in Malawi starts with strong, eco-friendly blocks. Habitat for Humanity Malawi is on the ground, producing both soil-stabilised and interlocking soil-stabilised blocks at the new Timange Ecobuild centre, helping communities build resilient and durable housing while training local builders.
Launched by Habitat for Humanity Malawi in Blantyre, Timange Ecobuild exemplifies how sustainable building practices can transform communities. The centre produces both soil-stabilised blocks (SSBs) and interlocking soil-stabilised blocks (ISSBs), as well as some concrete blocks. Since opening, it has manufactured over 120,000 SSBs and 22,000 concrete blocks, some of which have already been used to build 45 houses in Mulanje for families affected by Cyclone Freddy in 2023.
Beyond production, the centre serves as a training hub for local artisans, including young people and individuals with disabilities. Trainees gain hands- on experience with sustainable construction techniques, helping to build a workforce capable of supporting climate conscious housing across Malawi.
SSBs and ISSBs: Building Blocks of Change
Soil-stabilised blocks (SSBs) are made from a mixture of soil, stabiliser (such as cement or lime), and water, compressed into solid blocks and left to cure. They are durable, cost-effective and environmentally friendly, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions compared to traditional fired bricks.
Interlocking soil-stabilised blocks (ISSBs) are a variation of SSBs designed with interlocking edges. This design allows the blocks to fit together without extensive mortar, making construction faster, more precise, and structurally stable. ISSBs are particularly suitable for housing projects where efficiency and durability are priorities.
By producing these blocks at Timange Ecobuild, Habitat for Humanity Malawi ensures communities can build resilient, eco-friendly homes while making efficient use of local resources.
From Soil to Structure: How the Blocks Are Made
The production process for SSBs and ISSBs begins with preparing the soil, which is screened and mixed with a stabiliser such as cement or lime. Water is then added to achieve the right consistency, and the mixture is compressed into blocks using manual or mechanical presses. Once formed, the blocks are left to cure, developing strength over several days. ISSBs follow the same basic process but are produced in interlocking moulds that create precise shapes fitting together without mortar. This interlocking feature improves stability and allows for faster, more efficient construction.
Building Resilient Communities This Christmas
Timange Ecobuild shows how eco friendly construction and skills training can create lasting impact in Malawi. Habitat for Humanity is building resilient, empowered communities and this Christmas, you can support this work by contributing to our appeal. Your donation could fund sustainable housing, training and community development. Together, we can build a stronger future – one block at a time.
With special thanks to Fidelis Insurance and Europa for their generous support of our work.
