Banyan Treehouse School

Banyan Treehouse School is a fantastic place. An afforestation and construction project for a free and independent boarding school in Zambia. A novel method, using fast growing trees in a special pattern, will grow Super-Trees able to support multi-story treehouses. The Treehouse School will open the invisible gates to Nature and Sciences with daily experiences, fun and adventure. Education will be a process of self-determination and individual support the the bright-minded children of Zambia.

From a construction viewpoint the stranger fig, or Banyan tree is a miracle. It is a very fast growing tree that can start from the ground, but also from the branches of a host-tree. The aerial roots of the Banyan, as well as the branches have the capacity to gently grow over any surface and shape. After several years they turn into thick trunks and branches that can support a lot of weight. The additional trunks supporting the branches make the Banyan more stable than any other tree. It is not harmed by wildfires, storms, earthquakes, or flooding. The roots have been found to grow 120 m deep into the ground and the height reaches 70 m under natural conditions.

About 2000 Banyan trees will be planted for the project and connected to resemble the ancient trees in India. In a specific combination with other plants and construction the “created” Super-trees will be able to support treehouses after 1 year of growth. The design modules tailored to 100 children will be 3 hectares in size on a +5 hectare property. The school will have a food-forest and permacultural garden for independence and a Bamboo plantation for construction material. No timber or cement is used making the project ultra low-cost and thus no risk. The structure is "built" by natural “self-assembly” in which CO2, sunlight and water are converted into the “building”.

Banyan Treehouse School main building with classrooms – possible design. The 20 treehouses are all connected to the main building via canopy walk-ways of different kinds (see presentation). Wheelchair access is provided to all areas on solid, illuminated walkways. The children do not have to fear for their life as others who have to walk for miles to get to school, through traffic with toxic air, or the savannah where wild animals can attack. Not even stray dogs can reach the children in the golden zone under the canopies of the trees. They enjoy fresh air and Beauty each day.

Mrs. Mwaamba is the advisor to BTHS, future owner and CEO. She is an exceptionally accomplished personality and professional in many ways. She grew up in a SDA church where she showed rare leadership qualities. During her time in Zambian boarding school, she became renown by engagement in multiple clubs, her initiative and leadership. She founded the "Young Farmers Club" which had up to 150 attendees 2-4 times a week. Stories about her are told to students today. Mrs. Mwaamba speaks the 5 main languages of Zambia and English as native speaker. She is a self-made business woman and tailor living in Germany since 2021. She is the most loving, caring wife and mother that you`ll ever meet.