Urbanization is increasing rapidly and population is projected to growth exponentially over the next two decades. This has led to an increase in energy demand, hence rendering mechanical cooling unsustainable, particularly in Africa. Climate-responsive building designs emerge as an effective alternative by leveraging local climatic conditions and passive design strategies to optimize energy efficiency, occupants’ indoor comfort, and overall environmental sustainability. Despite the benefit, widespread adoption of climate-responsive designs in Africa has faced significant challenges, including weak regulatory frameworks, cultural resistance, unreliable climate data, limited technical expertise, and high initial cost of climate-responsive materials. Additionally, conventional building practices often overlook local climatic conditions, worsening environmental vulnerabilities within the region. This chapter critically explores pathways to address these barriers through integrating the vernacular architectural heritage with modernized sustainable practices to achieve climate-responsive buildings.