ABSTRACT

The second chapter of the book frames the housing issue in the Mozambican context and in the city of Pemba. The topic of living in Mozambique is particularly relevant as the country, despite being among the poorest in the world, is now experiencing a strong urbanization phenomenon. Mozambicans have widespread self-construction competence, and local legislation favours the implementation of self-built houses; therefore, in this historical moment, self-construction represents both a resource for dwelling and a way to preserve the traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. In addition, this chapter frames the objectives and methodological structure of the research for the analysis of self-built houses in the city of Pemba.