World Bank Backs Mauritania’s Reforms to Foster Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
The World Bank has approved Mauritania’s First Reform for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth Development Policy Financing, providing a $30 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) to support the government’s efforts to build a more diversified, resilient, and job-creating economy.
“This operation marks a significant step in Mauritania’s transition towards a more inclusive and sustainable development model. The reforms supported are designed to expand economic opportunities, strengthen institutions, and improve the quality of essential services so that growth translates into better jobs and improved living conditions for Mauritanians,” said Ibou Diouf, World Bank Country Manager for Mauritania.
The operation is the first in a programme of three and addresses structural constraints that have limited the country’s economic transformation. The series supports government initiatives to strengthen property tax collection, modernise investment regulations, develop human capital, and accelerate inclusive access to affordable and sustainable energy services.
“These reforms tackle the core bottlenecks that have constrained Mauritania’s ability to generate productive jobs and broaden its economic base,” said Urbain Thierry Yogo, Task Team Leader and Senior Economist. “By improving the investment climate, boosting human capital, and expanding energy access, the programme lays the groundwork for sustained, private-sector-led growth that benefits all Mauritanians.”
Enhanced property tax collection is expected to expand fiscal space for critical public investments in infrastructure, health, and education. At the same time, modernisation of investment regulations aims to create a transparent, predictable, and competitive environment for private sector growth, entrepreneurship, and SME development.
Human capital development remains a cornerstone of Mauritania’s growth agenda. The programme supports measures to improve learning outcomes, enhance the quality and equity of health services, strengthen social protection systems, and build the resilience of vulnerable populations.
The operation also advances reforms in the energy sector to expand affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy access, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 and the M300 Mauritania Energy Compact. These efforts aim to accelerate progress towards universal energy access and enable the country to harness its substantial renewable energy potential.
The programme aligns with the forthcoming Country Partnership Framework (CPF 2026–2030) and supports national strategies, including the Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity and the National Prevention Strategy, reinforcing government efforts to diversify the economy and reduce exposure to climate and commodity shocks.
By advancing this comprehensive package of reforms, the Development Policy Financing supports Mauritania’s ambition to move from an extractive-based economy to a diversified, job-rich, and climate-resilient growth model capable of delivering greater opportunities and improved living standards for all citizens.
