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. The program aims to expand economic opportunities, strengthen institutions, and improve essential services, ensuring that growth translates into better jobs and living conditions for Mauritanians.
This operation is the first in a programmatic series of three, targeting structural constraints that have historically limited the country’s economic transformation. The reforms focus on strengthening property tax collection, modernizing the regulatory framework for private investment, building human capital, and expanding inclusive access to affordable and sustainable energy. These measures are designed to create a more competitive, transparent environment for private sector growth while enhancing fiscal capacity for public investments in infrastructure, health, and education.
Human capital development is a central pillar of the program, with initiatives aimed at improving learning outcomes, health service quality and equity, social protection systems, and resilience among vulnerable populations. By investing in skills and wellbeing, Mauritania seeks to foster productive employment and sustainable economic participation across its population.
The operation also prioritizes energy sector reforms to increase access to reliable, affordable, and renewable energy, supporting the country’s progress toward universal energy access and aligning with global sustainability goals, including the seventh UN Sustainable Development Goal. These reforms are expected to unlock Mauritania’s renewable energy potential while enabling climate-resilient economic growth.
Aligned with the upcoming Country Partnership Framework (CPF 2026–2030) and national strategies such as the Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity, the program provides a comprehensive package of reforms. By promoting investment, human capital development, and energy access, the initiative supports Mauritania’s transition 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 citizens.
