Mauritania, one of the countries with the highest urbanization rates in Africa, is grappling with climate-related challenges that have severely impacted its urban development. The country's urbanization rate is projected to increase to 3.8% in 2024. However, this growth has not been without obstacles. In August 2022, flooding caused damage equivalent to up to 3% of GDP and destroyed more than 4,000 dwellings.
In response to these challenges, the Moudoun Project was launched with a $66 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA). The project aims to bolster the resilience of Mauritanian cities by supporting government efforts to enhance productivity, resilience, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability in towns and cities located in the country’s interior.
The Moudoun Project focuses on eight cities in southern Mauritania as well as refugee and host communities in and around Mberra on the Mali border. It operates on three fundamental pillars: participatory planning, local capacity building, and urban infrastructure development.
Community-based organizations are integral to identifying service needs and development priorities under participatory planning. Aminetou Mouhamed, a resident of Aioun city said: “The achievements of the Moudoun Project have enhanced the beauty and image of our dear city. We have been consulted on various project initiatives...and we can actually see real results from this project on the ground.”
Bouceif Ould Sid’Ahmed, the project’s coordinator explained that institutional capacity building is crucial for effective service management: “Completing the infrastructure work is not an end in itself...Investments that strengthen our local capacities are also investments in our collective future.” Between 2021 and 2023, there was a significant increase in municipalities’ own revenues due to improved capacity for effective urban services delivery.
In terms of infrastructure development, financing was provided for constructing three new sanitary landfills aimed at improving solid waste management in Rosso, Kiffa, and Kaedi. This initiative is expected to enhance cleanliness, mitigate health risks, reduce flooding, and promote overall economic development.
Mr. Bamba Darmane, mayor of the commune of Rosso said: “The commune of Rosso has benefited from many projects...These changes have a positive impact on the daily lives of our residents.”
In Kiffa, a new public square has transformed urban life by providing a community gathering space and recreational facilities for children and youth. In Mberra, an inclusive approach to preparing a Social Cohesion Plan with targeted investments laid the groundwork for small-scale infrastructure projects.
With an additional $25 million in financing to support the development of inclusive, resilient, and green cities coupled with strong country ownership and active local participation, Mauritania's prospects for enhanced urban resilience appear promising.