Assessing Sustainability of Unplanned Spontaneous Neighborhoods: Shambat al‐Hilla Case Study, Khartoum, Sudan

ABSTRACT Rapid urbanization in the Global South has led to the proliferation of unplanned spontaneous neighborhoods, which face significant sustainability challenges. This study explores the sustainability of such informal settlements, focusing on Shambat al‐Hilla in Khartoum, Sudan. The primary objective is to assess the sustainability of Shambat al‐Hilla using a tailored Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) framework, aiming to identify key challenges and opportunities while providing actionable recommendations for enhancing resilience and sustainable development. A mixed‐methods approach was employed, combining field surveys, SWOT analysis, and desktop research. Quantitative data was collected through 218 household questionnaires covering aspects such as governance, infrastructure, and socioeconomic conditions, analyzed using SPSS and complemented by qualitative personal observations. The study reveals both strengths and challenges within the neighborhood. Key strengths include strong community cohesion, strategic land use, and high educational attainment. However, critical challenges persist, such as inadequate infrastructure, poor waste management, and high unemployment. The Ministry of Planning's current development proposal raises concerns about the potential loss of vital social spaces. The research emphasizes the importance of integrating local knowledge, cultural practices, and community participation into urban planning, advocating for adaptive frameworks that address social, economic, and environmental needs while offering a replicable approach for enhancing informal settlements in other rapidly urbanizing cities.