Turning Steel into Solutions:

October 15, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

rise International’s Innovative Use of Shipping Containers for Sustainable Community Spaces

In its continued pursuit of sustainable design and community empowerment, rise International has pioneered an innovative approach to construction — repurposing shipping containers into functional, affordable, and eco-friendly spaces of impact. Over the past year, this method has come to life through three remarkable community projects across Lesotho, each addressing critical social needs while showcasing the transformative power of sustainable architecture.

1. The Hub Morija Library – Creating Access to Knowledge through Innovation

Completed and officially opened in March 2024, the Hub Morija Library stands as a creative example of how design can fuel education and community engagement. Constructed using two repurposed shipping containers, the project was envisioned to offer a library, learning, and storage space for the Morija community.

What makes this initiative unique is not only its low-cost and resource-efficient design but also the collaborative process behind it. By transforming used shipping containers into an inviting learning hub, rise International and its partners have demonstrated that sustainability can go hand in hand with creativity and community development.

2. Mapholaneng Community Youth Center – A Model for Sustainable Architecture in Rural Lesotho

Further north in the Mokhotlong District, rise International completed the Mapholaneng Community Youth Center in March 2025 — a project that embodies both innovation and social impact. Built entirely from converted shipping containers, the center provides a safe, dynamic, and multifunctional space for young people to gather, learn, and grow.

This approach to construction offers multiple advantages: it significantly reduces environmental impact, minimizes material waste, and lowers overall construction costs. The result is a durable, adaptable structure that can withstand local climate conditions while remaining flexible to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Youth Center is a shining example of how modern sustainability principles can be applied to rural development without compromising on quality or purpose.

3. Makoanyane Primary School ECCD Center – Building a Bright Future for Young Learners

The third initiative showcasing this sustainable model is the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Center at Makoanyane Primary School. Here, two shipping containers were transformed into a healthy, safe, and stimulating environment for early learners.

The design emphasizes natural lighting, ventilation, and child-friendly interiors, creating a nurturing atmosphere where young children can thrive. By reimagining discarded materials into meaningful spaces, rise International continues to champion a circular economy — one that gives new life to old resources while directly benefiting the next generation.

A Sustainable Path Forward

These three projects highlight how rise International is redefining what sustainable construction means in the African context. By combining innovative design, community participation, and environmental responsibility, rise demonstrates that impactful infrastructure doesn’t have to come at a high financial or ecological cost.

Each shipping container project tells a story — of transformation, creativity, and hope. What was once industrial waste has become a vessel for learning, growth, and opportunity. Through initiatives like these, rise International continues to build not just structures, but the foundations of a more sustainable and empowered future for Lesotho.

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Big wins, bold steps & brighter futures with rise

October 9, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

As we continue our journey of building sustainable communities and empowering entrepreneurs, we’re excited to share some of our most recent milestones and updates with you. From global recognition to local impact, these highlights remind us of the power of collaboration and innovation.

rise International is proud to announce that one of the biggest projects we have worked on, the Kick4Life ‘Stadium of Life’ project has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 Built by Nature Award. This recognition celebrates projects around the world that use nature-based solutions in construction to create a positive climate and social impact. Being among the shortlisted organizations is a true testament to the dedication of our team and partners.

Biodiversity Stand Featured in SA Landscape

The Biodiversity Stand, a key feature of the Stadium of Life by Kick4Life has been highlighted in SA Landscape Magazine. The feature showcases how this innovative timber structure not only provides seating but also celebrates environmental stewardship through its unique design and materials.
The ‘Theatre of Life’, is an outdoor amphitheater which forms part of the FSC Stadium of Life’s Biodiversity Stand, designed by Park Associati and constructed by rise.
This exciting feature – connecting sport, art, education and nature – will enable us to deliver a wide range of community programmes and cultural activities, surrounded by indigenous plants and with the 11-a-side football pitch providing a unique backdrop!

Makoanyane ECCD Centre – Handover

We were delighted to officially handed over the newly completed Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Centre at Makoanyane Primary School Maseru | Lesotho . This facility provides young learners with a safe, nurturing space to learn and grow. Made possible by the generous support of Action Ireland Trust, this initiative under the 5 Hub Schools -AIT Project, will provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for young learners and it forms part of our collective effort to improve education infrastructure and early learning outcomes.

rise at the Sebabatso Conference

Our team recently participated in the Sebabatso Youth and Entrepreneurship Conference, where we engaged with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. The event provided a platform to showcase our work in sustainable construction and social enterprise, while also learning from inspiring voices across sectors.

Thank you for being part of our journey!
Whether you’re a donor, partner, pioneer, or supporter, YOU make these stories of hope, growth, and transformation possible.

Building Dignity, Sharing Knowledge!

September 4, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

If 2024 Had A Theme, It Would Be CONSISTENCY!

Annual Report 2024

At rise International we have been moving steadily forward, improving, inspiring, building, learning, and growing. Has it been tiring? At times, yes. But more than anything, it has been energizing and deeply rewarding.

We invite you to pour yourself a warm cup of coffee or tea and join us on a journey through the highlights of 2024 through the Annual Report.

Building Better Futures at Leqele, Makoanyane Primary Schools

August brought exciting progress at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, where new toilet blocks are well underway. Led by rise International Pioneers PRO Construction and XYZ Contractors, these facilities are more than just buildings, they are a promise of dignity, safety, and a healthier school environment for hundreds of learners.

Thanks to the generous funding by Action Ireland Trust (AIT) these are the last schools of the 5hub Schools project which has seen 5 schools get new flushing toilets, food gardens, rain water harvesting and kitchens with pressure cookers.

“We are excited to see the toilets taking shape. Our learners will finally have the safe facilities they deserve, which will give them dignity and proper sanitation” shared a teacher at Leqele Primary School.

Motimposo Primary School Celebrates New Urinals

A major highlight during this month was the completion of new urinals at Motimposo Primary School, built as part of our International Workshop Project.

The 2025 International Workshop came to a conclusion having successfully constructed a much needed urinal at Motimposo Primary School in the beginning of August!

Participants from ARUP, University International Catalonia (UIC Barcelona), local volunteers, and the rise team came together to construct new urinals for the boys, using eco-friendly Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs). This initiative not only will improve sanitation infrastructure but also promote sustainable and community-led development.

Designed to serve nearly 900 boys, the urinals address a long-standing need for proper sanitation at the school. The spirit of teamwork culminated in a joyful handover ceremony, where students, teachers, and community members came together to celebrate this milestone.

“These new facilities will change the daily lives of our boys,” said Principal Mabokang Lehoeleha.

INSPIRING LECTURE ON HOLISTIC SUSTAINABILITY

During this month, we were so honored to host a special lecture by one of our international interns from the University International Catalonia in Barcelona, Spain ‘Nafeesa Clarke’. The session was held in partnership with Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (Lesotho), focused on holistic sustainability — how architecture can weave together environmental responsibility, social inclusion, and community empowerment.

The lecture sparked lively discussions and fresh ideas among our fellows, students, and local practitioners, strengthening rise’s commitment to learning and knowledge exchange that goes beyond borders.

The work doesn’t stop here. From new school facilities to sustainable innovation, we’re excited about what lies ahead. Thank you for standing with us as we build futures of dignity and opportunity.

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Impact in Motion: July Highlights from Lesotho & Zambia

August 7, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

Empowering Communities Through Action – Our July rise Recap
As we move through the heart of the year, we’re excited to share some of the incredible progress and activities that took place in July across our projects in Lesotho and Zambia. From groundbreaking workshops to cross-border collaborations, July has been a month of action, learning, and impact.

Progress on the Play it Forward Project – Zambia

We’re proud to announce that the Masterplan and Concept Design for the Play it Forward (PIF) project in Zambia have been successfully completed. This marks a significant milestone in our cross-border collaboration. We now await the appointment of a Zambian architect by PIF for the official design handover and presentation, which will usher in the next exciting phase of this transformative community project.

“We are growing together” – Peter from PRO Construction Shares His Testimony

This month, we had the pleasure of capturing a heartfelt testimonial video from Peter Makhetha, founder of PRO Construction and one of our dedicated in loco alumni. His powerful story speaks to the growth, skills, and confidence he’s gained through his partnership with rise:

“Through rise, I’ve been able to grow my business, expand my team, and take on bigger projects with purpose. We are not just building structures—we’re building livelihoods.” – Peter, PRO Construction.

International Workshop Launches at Motimposo Primary School
The 2025 International Workshop officially kicked off at Motimposo Primary School this July! Participants from ARUP, University International Catalonia (UIC Barcelona), local volunteers, and the rise team came together to construct new urinals for the boys, using eco-friendly Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs). This initiative not only improves sanitation infrastructure but also promotes sustainable and community-led development.

ICEB Training for Fired Brick Manufacturers
To advance our mission of sustainable building, rise International hosted an introductory ICEB training for 30 fired brick manufacturers this month. Facilitated by Thato Nkikana, rise’s Project and Construction Manager, the session focused on how ICEB machinery works and how traditional brickmakers can adopt more eco-friendly and cost-effective practices in their work. It was an eye-opening experience for many, laying the groundwork for more sustainable construction practices across the sector.

ICEB Certification at Motimposo Primary School

As part of our commitment to promoting sustainable and innovative building methodologies, we also concluded an intensive training week focused on Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) production. The training took place at Motimposo Primary School, where 14 participants of our International Workshop received their Certificates of Completion after successfully completing the program.

The participants engaged in a comprehensive learning experience that combined theoretical instruction, hands-on practical training, and collaborative knowledge sharing. From understanding the science behind earth-based construction to manufacturing and laying ICEBs, the workshop provided a robust foundation in this sustainable building technique.

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From Toilets to Testimonies: Your Support is Changing Lives

July 3, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

PROGRESS THROUGH PARTNERSHIP:

We are proud to share the progress of the ongoing construction of new school toilet blocks at Leqele and Makoanyane Primary Schools, in Maseru as part of the 5 Hub Schools Project. This essential infrastructure was made possible through a generous donation by Action Ireland Trust and its partners. The contractors on the ground working on the project are two of rise Pioneers XYZ Collaborative and PRO Construction, driving community transformation. These safe, clean sanitation facilities are expected to significantly improve the learning environment for hundreds of students, especially young girls.

VOICES OF IMPACT:

Pioneer Incubation Program beneficiary Seabata Motanya’s Journey

In our latest testimonial video, rise Pioneer Seabata Motanya of XYZ Collaborative shares how the in loco and Pioneer Incubation Program has transformed his life and career. His inspiring journey reflects the true spirit of rise: building people, not just projects.

Through generous donations to rise International, Seabata received vital mentorship, training, workspace, access to the internet, and tools to grow his construction business which continues to employ other job seeking young people.

rise IN KENYA: EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAM

June marked a major milestone in our expansion across Africa with the largest cohort to date of our Employability Program in Kenya (East Africa). A vibrant group of 14 participants (12 young women and 2 young men) from Jacaranda and Watamu joined the program to gain practical skills and hands-on experience through rise’s “learning-by-doing” model.

The Employability Program equips youth with CV writing skills, time management skills, interview skills, and getting ready for the workplace. All this before they begin internships across Watamu and Jacaranda for 1 – 3 months.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE:

UCL Students Present Affordable Housing Solutions

Architecture students from University College London (UCL) recently delivered their second presentation of sustainable affordable housing designs tailored to the contexts of Maseru (urban) and Mokhotlong (rural).In collaboration with rise, the students explored innovative approaches that incorporate local materials, eco-friendly technologies, and community-centric designs to tackle Lesotho’s housing challenges. This designs will help in the way we approach sustainable construction going forward in our efforts of community projects.

Thank you for being part of our journey!
Whether you’re a donor, partner, pioneer, or supporter, YOU make these stories of hope, growth, and transformation possible.

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Building the Future Sustainably: rise International at the Kick4Life Forum 2025

May 15, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

rise International was honored to participate in the Kick4Life Sustainability Forum 2025, held earlier this month in Maseru, Lesotho. The forum brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including civil society organizations, local educators, private sector representatives, and change-makers, to discuss the future of climate resilience and innovation.

The primary focus of the forum was to promote and advocate for eco-friendly practices, particularly in the areas of waste management, environmental conservation, and the preservation of natural resources in response to climate change.

Representing rise International, Construction and Project Manager Thato Nkikana delivered a compelling presentation on the Stadium of Life, a flagship project built using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified sustainable timber. She outlined the construction process and highlighted the project’s positive impact on the surrounding community, especially through job creation and local development.

Nkikana emphasized the role of recent university graduates engaged through rise International’s in loco fellowship program, which equips young professionals in the built environment with hands-on experience. She also stressed the importance of collaborative design, noting that rise International worked closely with the Kick4Life football team during participatory design workshops to ensure the stadium’s layout reflected the team’s input and vision.

“During the participatory design workshop, we worked closely with the Kick4Life soccer team to share ideas about the pitch layout. This ensured we, as rise International, didn’t impose our ideas, but rather reached a design aligned with our client’s needs,” she explained.

Speaking on behalf of their former cohort, Liteboho Korea and Lintle Mofolo—members of the fifth in loco fellowship cohort—shared their experiences during the construction phase, which spanned from March 2023 to April 2024. Their group of nine fellows worked on key elements of the stadium, including posting rails, a six-meter seating stand prototype, and a retaining wall for a 5-a-side pitch.

The duo discussed both challenges and successes, citing harsh weather conditions, the importance of teamwork, and the development of problem-solving and time management skills as significant learning experiences.

Korea, who served primarily as a Quantity Surveyor, also took on the role of Site Manager, thanks to rise International’s culture of cross-role learning.

“As team lead, I took on various responsibilities relevant to my field of study, including ensuring compliance with FSC timber regulations and overseeing community members who were employed during the construction,” Korea noted. “I am thankful for the in loco program, which allowed me to build lasting professional relationships.”

Mofolo, who acted as both Site Architect and Site Manager, reflected on the challenges of working with timber—a less common construction material in Lesotho.

“Initially, I was skeptical about the sustainability of using large quantities of timber,” she admitted. “But after learning about FSC and the planned construction methods, I understood how the project would protect and responsibly use timber resources.”

Mofolo concluded by sharing her personal growth through the experience, especially in teamwork, networking, and building confidence.

“I am truly grateful to rise International and Kick4Life for involving us in such a significant project,” she said.

The forum concluded with a guided tour of the stadium, led by Site Manager Keketso Sula. Attendees had the opportunity to experience the stadium first-hand, examine the timber structures, and explore how different sections of the facility are designed to accommodate people with disabilities.

A Q&A session followed the tour, providing a platform to address attendees’ questions and concerns and deepen understanding of the sustainable choices made in constructing the Stadium of Life

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Empowering Exciting Developments in Our Community – Partnerships, Sustainability & School Projects!

May 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

Empowering Local Artisans: ICEB Training & Business Workshop

During the month of March, rise International hosted an informative workshop at Durahm Link in Maseru, aimed at educating local stone artisans about Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs) and providing essential business training. This initiative is part of the “Build Smart, Build Local” campaign, which promotes sustainable and innovative construction methodologies within the industry.

The session was led by Business Trainer ‘Maneo Seekane, who facilitated an open dialogue, encouraging artisans to share their experiences, challenges, and successes. Through interactive discussions, participants explored the balance between input and output in their businesses, gaining practical insights to enhance their craftsmanship and entrepreneurial skills.

This workshop underscores our commitment to equipping local artisans with knowledge and tools that foster sustainable construction and economic growth.

Celebrating the Kick4Life & Wrexham AFC Partnership

In late February, rise International had the privilege of celebrating with our partner, Kick4Life, as they launched their club twinning partnership with Wrexham AFC from Wales, UK!

This collaboration goes beyond football—it’s about empowering young people through sport, skills development, and life-changing opportunities. With the newly constructed Stadium of Life, Africa’s first-ever FSC-timber football stadium, this partnership will open even greater pathways for youth to develop their talent and build a brighter future.

Biodiversity Stand: A Step Towards a Greener Future

The Biodiversity Stand at the ‘Stadium of Life’ is making great strides and is due to be completed by the end of March. This innovative feature will not only provide additional seating in a beautiful garden setting of indigenous plants, trees and shrubs, but will also serve as an educational and cultural space with an amphitheater for performances and events, all helping to promote environmental awareness.

Using sustainable building methods and materials, the Biodiversity Stand showcases our commitment to green construction and community engagement. We are excited about the impact this will have on promoting biodiversity and sustainability within our community.

New Sanitation Facilities for Makoanyane & Leqele Primary Schools

As part of our ongoing commitment to improving school infrastructure, we are preparing to begin construction on new toilet blocks for Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, thanks to the generous support of Action Ireland Trust and their partners. These facilities will ensure a healthier and safer learning environment for students, contributing to better hygiene standards and overall well-being.

The construction will be spearheaded by rise International pioneers, Peter of Pro Construction and Seabata of XYZ Collaborative, showcasing local expertise and commitment to sustainable development. This project is part of the larger initiative to enhance sanitation in schools and is made possible through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, including Lesotho’s military, Lesotho Defence Force whose officers will be volunteering their time at the Makoanyane Primary School.

New Sanitation Facilities for Makoanyane & Leqele Primary Schools As part of our ongoing commitment to improving school infrastructure, we are preparing to begin construction on new toilet blocks for Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools, thanks to the generous support of Action Ireland Trust and their partners. These facilities will ensure a healthier and safer learning environment for students, contributing to better hygiene standards and overall well-being. The construction will be spearheaded by rise International pioneers, Peter of Pro Construction and Seabata of XYZ Collaborative, showcasing local expertise and commitment to sustainable development. This project is part of the larger initiative to enhance sanitation in schools and is made possible through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, including Lesotho’s military, Lesotho Defence Force whose officers will be volunteering their time at the Makoanyane School.

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Stories of Impact in Africa with AIT

May 7, 2025By Chris Theko1 Comment

rise International was privileged to host 90 dedicated volunteers from Action Ireland Trust (AIT), including high school students, parents, architects, and AIT management. This dynamic collaboration exemplifies the power of international cooperation in achieving meaningful change.

The AIT volunteers brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the 5Hub Schools project, enriching the community with vibrant cultural exchange.

Transforming Education Infrastructure: The Makoanyane Primary School Project

Together with AIT, we’re revolutionizing early childhood education at Makoanyane Primary School in Maseru. Two shipping containers, generously donated from Ireland, are being transformed into a state-of-the-art creche facility. This nurturing space will provide a safe, stimulating environment for early childhood development and skills-building, addressing a critical need in the community.

Project Highlights:

Impact: This project will provide a strong foundation for young learners, fostering their growth and development.

Innovative Design: The creches interior and exterior are being meticulously crafted to create a child-friendly, vibrant, and educational space.

Local Ownership: We are proud of rise International’s pioneers and staff, who took over ensuring the project’s successful completion and long-term sustainability.

AIT’s Generous Donation: Strengthening Healthcare in Lesotho

rise International facilitated the donation of essential medical equipment by AIT to two local organizations: Starlight Oasis of Hope Hospice and Intellectual Disability and Autism Lesotho (IDAL). This generous contribution included wheelchairs, hospital beds, crutches, and zimmer frames, significantly enhancing the capacity of these organizations to provide vital care to vulnerable populations.

Collaborations and Partnership

Cultivating Lesotho’s Future Leaders

rise International is committed to empowering the next generation of changemakers. Our recent Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program (26 February – 1 April 2025) connected students from:

National University of Lesotho (NUL)
Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP) (Lesotho)
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) (United Kingdom)

This cross-cultural initiative addressed the critical theme of “Analyzing Building Materials in Lesotho for Affordable Housing.” Students explored sustainable housing solutions, with a focus on:

Environmental Sustainability: NTU students evaluated the ecological footprint of local materials, promoting environmental responsibility.

Economic Analysis: NUL students conducted cost analyses of various building materials, emphasizing affordability for low-income households.

Social Impact: LP students assessed the social impact of different construction materials, considering community acceptance, safety, and cultural relevance.

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Cross-Continental Collaboration for Sustainable Housing

April 9, 2025By Chris Theko2 Comments

rise International Leads Student Research Project with NTU, NUL & LP

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable construction, inclusive education, and international cooperation, rise International recently coordinated a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project that brought together students from Nottingham Trent University (UK), National University of Lesotho (NUL), and Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP).

The project, which ran from 25 February to 1 April 2025, focused on the Analysis of Building Materials in Lesotho for Affordable Housing—a topic of critical importance in addressing Lesotho’s growing need for low-cost, sustainable housing solutions.

A Unique Model of Global Collaboration

COIL is a globally recognized teaching and learning methodology that connects students and educators across borders. In this project, rise facilitated the formation of six interdisciplinary and cross-cultural student groups, each tasked with conducting a comparative assessment of building materials used in Lesotho.

Each institution brought unique expertise to the collaboration:

Economics students from the National University of Lesotho (NUL) conducted cost analyses of different building materials and methods, assessing affordability for low-income households.
Architecture students from Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP) evaluated the social impacts of construction materials, considering aspects such as community acceptance, safety, and cultural relevance.
Environmental students from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) examined the ecological footprint of local materials, evaluating their sustainability and long-term environmental impact.

This multidisciplinary approach allowed for a holistic understanding of the materials commonly used in the Lesotho construction sector—from conventional cement and brick to alternative materials such as Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs) and sandbag technology.

Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers

The project offered students an opportunity not only to expand their technical knowledge, but also to develop vital soft skills including cross-cultural communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

“Working with peers from different disciplines and countries opened our eyes to new perspectives,” shared one of the participating students. “It helped us think more critically and creatively about housing challenges in Lesotho.”

Through weekly online meetings, digital collaboration tools, and final presentations, students were able to share their findings with peers and lecturers across the three institutions. The presentations revealed diverse insights, ranging from the economic viability of alternative materials to the environmental trade-offs of traditional construction methods.

Aligning with Rise’s Mission

At rise International, we believe that affordable housing and sustainable construction are key to uplifting communities and driving economic growth. This project reflects our core values by:

Promoting knowledge exchange between local and international institutions.
Encouraging innovation in the built environment.
Empowering students to become active contributors to social and environmental change.

We are proud to have facilitated this meaningful collaboration and look forward to building on these relationships to continue advancing sustainable development in Lesotho and beyond.

What’s Next?

The outcomes of the project will inform ongoing discussions on sustainable housing in Lesotho, and rise is currently exploring opportunities to scale the collaboration further—potentially turning some of the research into pilot projects, policy briefs, or technical workshops for stakeholders in the housing and construction sectors.

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Building Sustainably: rise Empowers Local Masons with ICEB Training

March 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

As part of the ongoing “Build Smart, Build Local” initiative, rise International recently hosted a capacity-building workshop at Durahm Link, Maseru, aimed at equipping local masons with sustainable construction methodologies. The workshop provided hands-on training in various brick production techniques, including conventional concrete, fire burning, and extracted rock approaches. However, the primary focus was on Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEB), an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and durable construction innovation gaining traction in the industry.

Enhancing Business Acumen in Construction

Opening the workshop, Business Trainer ‘Maneo Seekane engaged attendees in an interactive discussion on the fundamental principles of running a construction business. She emphasized key areas such as cost and price determination, necessary equipment, and production capabilities that businesses can benchmark. This session encouraged knowledge-sharing, with masons exchanging insights on their current practices, challenges, and innovative solutions.

Proprietor Kefuoe Lefera described the workshop as invaluable, stating, “These sessions are essential for sharing experiences among local entrepreneurs, building confidence in business, and fostering networking opportunities.” She highlighted ICEB’s affordability, noting that “one does not need significant capital to start production.”

Technical Insights into ICEB Production

Rise’s Construction and Projects Manager, Thato Nkikana, led the theoretical component of the workshop, detailing the composition and production of ICEBs. She stressed the importance of selecting the right materials—particularly ensuring a proper ratio of rough sand, subsoil, and mineral content. “We need at least 50% sand and 30% to 40% clay to achieve the ideal composition,” Nkikana explained, adding that sand testing can be conducted using simple household tools.

For ‘Masefabatho Sula, a representative from the Ministry of Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Development, this was her second time attending a rise ICEB workshop. She noted its instrumental role in introducing different brick-making methods. “This machinery is evidently more user-friendly and cost-effective. These workshops are crucial for knowledge-sharing and business growth,” she remarked.

Hands-On Demonstration and Practical Training

The workshop transitioned into a live demonstration led by rise International’s Construction Supervisor, Ramarou Tsoho, and Construction Coordinator, Tumelo Sethunsa. Both experts guided participants through the mixing process and operational techniques of ICEB machinery. Tsoho demonstrated how to produce full and half blocks, emphasizing the importance of adhering to a guidebook for beginners while allowing for micro-adjustments as experience grows. “Following the correct process ensures consistency and quality in production,” he advised.

Attendees were given the opportunity to operate the machinery, providing them with firsthand experience. Local businessman Makhetha Khoabane acknowledged the significance of ICEB technology in expanding his brick-making business. Similarly, Phoofolo Khoabane expressed enthusiasm about acquiring ICEB machinery, citing its lower production costs compared to conventional methods. “Owning this equipment would allow me to scale my enterprise efficiently,” he stated.

Rise International’s Commitment to Sustainable Development

Rise International continues to champion sustainable development through its various projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notable initiatives include the Stadium of Life and the 5 Hub Schools project, both of which incorporate eco-friendly materials such as timber, sandbags, and ICEBs. One of the organization’s significant achievements is the construction of the Motimposo Primary School Kitchen Pavilion using ICEBs—a fully operational facility that has greatly improved meal preparation for students.

Through initiatives like the ICEB workshop, rise International remains dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, promoting innovative building technologies, and empowering local communities in Lesotho. As the adoption of sustainable construction practices grows, such training programs are essential in driving economic and social development across the region.