NOUAKCHOTT, November 25, 2025 - The World Bank has approved Mauritania's First Reform for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth Development Policy Financing, a $30 million credit from the International Developpement Association (IDA) that supports the Government of Mauritania's efforts to build a more diversified, resilient, and job-creating economy.
"This operation marks a significant step in Mauritania's transition toward 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 programmatic series of three aimed at addressing structural constraints that limit Mauritania's economic transformation. The series supports government efforts to: strengthen property tax collection and the regulatory framework for private investment, build human capital and skills for jobs, and accelerate inclusive access to affordable and sustainable energy services.
"These reforms tackle the core bottlenecks that have limited 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 access to reliable energy, the program lays the groundwork for sustained, private-sector-led growth that benefits all Mauritanians."
Reforms to enhance property tax collection will expand fiscal space for critical public investments in infrastructure, health, and education, while modernization of investment regulations will help create a more transparent, predictable, and competitive environment for private sector growth, entrepreneurship, and SME development.
Human capital development remains a cornerstone of Mauritania's long-term growth agenda. The operation supports measures aimed at enhancing learning outcomes, improving the quality and equity of health services, strengthening social protection systems, and bolstering the resilience of vulnerable populations.
The program also advances key reforms in the energy sector to expand affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy access in line with the seventh United Nations Sustainable Development Goal and the M300 Mauritania Energy Compact, accelerating progress toward universal access and enabling the country to harness its substantial renewable energy potential.
The operation aligns with the forthcoming Country Partnership Framework (CPF 2026-2030) and supports national strategies, including the Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity, the National Prevention Strategy, and broader 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 stronger opportunities and improved living standards for all.
