The architecture of the Kassena-Nankana people reflects a profound expression of cultural identity, cosmological belief systems, and sustainable practice. At the heart of this tradition are distinctive round and square dwellings, constructed from natural earth and thatch, symbolising unity and the interconnectedness of life. This article offers a critical examination of the multifaceted nature of Kassena-Nankana architecture, highlighting its efficient use of resources, capacity for energy conservation, community-centred construction methods, and underlying economic rationality. It also addresses the mounting challenges posed by urbanisation, climate change, and shifting generational preferences, which increasingly threaten the continuity of these architectural traditions. The erosion of such practices risks the loss of a vital repository of ecological knowledge and cultural heritage. Situated within broader discourses on indigenous knowledge systems, this study argues for the continued relevance of Kassena-Nankana architecture to sustainable development and contemporary design. It advocates a hybrid architectural paradigm that integrates traditional forms with modern technologies—enhancing functionality and durability while preserving cultural meaning—as a viable model for sustainable and contextually grounded design in an era of rapid socio-environmental transformation.

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Keywords

Indigenous Architecture, Kassena-Nankana, Built Environment, Complementary Construction, Ghana, Burkina Faso