Expert Consultation

Within the construction industry and workforce at large, I was thrilled to e-meet some people! Though unable to attend a specific conference, the conversations or encounters I had with these experts fed into my understanding of the development system on a grander scale and specifically within my capstone prototyping phase.

Thanks to the network of Mr Darrell Kofkin, I was able to meet Pacifique Ngabo, the Managing Director at Kapoa Contractors (local construction company), Emmanuel Tuyisenge, CEO at Temaco Builders (specializing in manufacturing prefabricated concrete products for modern construction), and Jean Claude, a District Head of Rwanda Youth Volunteer Force (RYVF).

Engagements with these gentlemen primarily served as inspiration regarding what is possible in the industry (like how Kapoa Contractors can thrive as a local construction company) and encouragement about the support for upcoming enterprises. For instance, in conjunction with Temaco (who also creates pavers, tiles, and bricks), I have access to standard product testing where Operation 414’s innovation is concerned. A significant element in our operating model is community involvement, and that is where Jean Claude came in to provide insight. Conversations are still ongoing with these experts; however, I notice a preference to meet and discuss in person before much tangible progress occurs.

Gjenje Makers

Another major stakeholder I contacted earlier was Gjenje Makers, the organization with a DNA similar to Operation 414's. They directly and significantly impacted my project (especially the prototyping) by aiding my discovery of a crucial missing element in my brick production: compression. In their video journey below (from 15:29), one can notice the critical role compression plays in harnessing the full potential of the sand/plastic combination—a tactic I was unable to employ this time.