AfDB Approves $500,000 Emergency Grant for Malian Refugees in Mauritania
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $500,000 emergency humanitarian grant to Mauritania to support Malian refugees and vulnerable host communities in the Hodh El Chargui region.
The funding will address urgent water, sanitation and hygiene needs for nearly 36,000 people, more than half of them women and children, across 18 localities in Adel-Bagrou, Timbédra, Djigueni and Amourj.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with Mauritanian authorities, will oversee implementation to ensure compliance with international humanitarian standards. Planned interventions include the installation of 250 semi-durable latrine and shower blocks, the distribution of 1,500 hygiene kits, the establishment of 50 community management committees, and the promotion of sound hygiene practices.
“This emergency assistance demonstrates our solidarity with Mauritania and our commitment to protecting the dignity of the most vulnerable populations,” said Malinne Blomberg, AfDB Deputy Director General for North Africa. “By partnering with UNICEF and national authorities, we are delivering a rapid and concrete response to the essential needs of refugees and host communities.”
The programme has a strong gender dimension, with infrastructure tailored to the needs of women and girls and support provided for survivors of gender-based violence. It is also aligned with the Bank’s 2022–2026 Strategy for Addressing Fragility and Building Resilience in Africa.
Mauritania has hosted tens of thousands of Malian refugees since 2012, as instability and violence forced many to cross the border. Their presence has placed severe demographic pressure on already fragile host areas, further compounded by drought and food insecurity.
Through this new support, the African Development Bank reaffirms its commitment to assisting Mauritania in meeting humanitarian challenges while contributing to stability and sustainable development across the Sahel.
