This paper introduces the Five-Dimensional Recovery Model (Five-DRM) that offers an innovative system to understand the dimensions of sustainable urban recovery and reconstruction within the context of post-conflict Sudan. The Five-DRM combines recovery dimensions of digital recovery and transformation, socio-economic recovery, environmental recovery, recovery of institutions, and urban recovery.
The research involved a qualitative analysis of literature related to recovery from conflict. This analysis was supplemented by a comparative analysis of international recovery frameworks, case studies of select post-conflict situations, and a context analysis of the recovery challenges of Sudan. The framework was formed by the bundled lessons of recovery from conflicts around the world and studied to what extent these lessons could be applied to Sudan.
The current development of recovery frameworks deals with the separate dimensions of reconstruction. There is little to no guidance for post-conflict urban recovery in Sudan. The Five-DRM framework brings together the digital transformation and recovery, socio-economic, environmental, institutional, and urban recovery dimensions in a single framework and, in doing so, provides an opportunity to promote long-term sustainable and inclusive resilience.
The model is one of the first frameworks for integrated recovery concepts for post-conflict Sudan and incorporates an innovative digital transformation and recovery dimension. The Five-DRM model focuses on recovery dimensions and will encourage the achievement of SDGs 9, 11, and 16.
The inability to collect primary field data due to conflict in Sudan was compensated for by using validated secondary data and comparative case studies. Consequently, the proposed framework should be considered an initial conceptual model that requires future empirical testing and validation.
The model provides a framework for policy-makers, planners, and development professionals engaged in rural reconstruction and recovery from conflict.
Mohammedani, E. A. (2026): Beyond reconstruction: a Five-Dimensional Recovery Model (Five-DRM) for sustainable post-conflict urban development in Sudan. International Journal of Sudan Research (IJSR), Vol 13, Nos. 1/2, pp. 71-96.
