I have discovered that I needed to rethink the way in which I thought.
In this new environment of Africa which I am in there is large agrarian economy here. Because of this strong agrarian influence I have realized I need to focus on the basic elements:
Earth
Water
Wind
Fire
This has taken me a while to realize this.
I see this as what makes the most sense. The people lives here, not privy to modern living, heavily rely on these elements.
The daily life is guided by the sun. Although up before dawn and working at the farm, once dusk hits everyone is home because when the sun sets there is complete and utter darkness. If you have a flashlight (which nobody can afford) then you are okay but that is unheard of.
This is Fire(Light)
As for Earth, the society is agrarian and so the earth provides the means to live. The connection the people have with the earth creates a unique perception of it for them. It provides life for them.
This is Earth.
Water, the essence of life. Here it is not only the bring of life but the taker also. The rains are coming soon and will help nourish the seeds which are planted in the ground. The water will help them grow and soon they will prosper and the people will have nourishment.
But on the other side the water also takes life. It erodes roads to the point where only a 4x4 can make it (and those are hard to come by also). This isolates the people who are far in the bush. Isolating them from food, water and medicine.
This is Water.
The last is Wind. Wind is unique. There are three times which I have experienced wind. One, on the top of a mountain. Two, the strong winds before a storm hits. Three, the breeze in a building with cross-ventilation.
This is Wind.
So what do these four Elements have to do with architecture?
I believe that these four Elements dictate the way in which the architecture is manifested. I will supplement this further with images, observations and experiences.