Understanding the Nexus Between Urban Planning and Public Health Challenges in Selected Informal Settlements in Port Harcourt Municipal

Abstract

Informal settlements pose significant challenges to urban development and public health, particularly in cities like Port Harcourt. These areas are often defined by inadequate infrastructure, overcrowding, and limited access to essential services. This study investigates the intersection of public health and urban planning to address the challenges associated with informal settlements in Port Harcourt. The objectives include defining the relationship between public health and urban planning in informal settlements, identifying key challenges and gaps, and proposing integrative solutions to improve living conditions and health outcomes. The research methodology combines field observations, a literature review, and insights from key informants. The literature review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, ensuring a systematic and rigorous approach to identifying, screening, and analyzing relevant studies. An initial search of academic databases—Google Scholar, Scopus, and JSTOR—yielded 49 records, of which 26 were reviewed for data pertinent to the study's objectives. The research team obtained additional insights from six key informants: two public health professionals, two urban planners, and two local stakeholders (a landlord and a community leader). This paper underscores the critical intersection between public health and urban planning in informal settlements, highlighting the challenges, existing gaps, and actionable solutions. By integrating strategies from both fields, cities can foster sustainable and healthier living environments for residents of informal settlements.