African Development Banks Inks Agreement With Mauritania To Improve Livestock Sector

An agreement signed between the African Development Bank and Mauritania is expected to bring significant improvements to the country's livestock sector, which accounts for 11 of its gross domestic product.

The agreement, which was signed on the sidelines of the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam and witnessed by Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and His Excellency President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, will see the bank invest UA18.3m, covering approximately 85.48 of the total project cost of UA21.4m.

Mauritania has one of the largest livestock populations in Africa, with 2.3 million cattle, 14.6 million sheep, 9.4 million goats, and 1.5 million camels. Given the grass-fed nature of production and the unique breed characteristics of Mauritanian livestock, the country's meat is highly sought after in regional markets. In 2021 alone, Mauritania exported approximately 750,000 heads of cattle, primarily to Senegal and The Gambia, generating around 120m.

Despite this potential, the sector remains constrained by structural inefficiencies that hinder growth, productivity, and competitiveness on international markets. Key challenges include inadequate feed and water resources, poor animal health services, and a heavy reliance on natural pastures that are increasingly under threat from desertification. The lack of modernisation in the sector, coupled with insufficient access to markets and commercial inputs, has led to heavy reliance on imported animal products. In 2021, Mauritania spent approximately 143m on the importation of dairy products, poultry, and table eggs, underscoring the need for a transformative approach to livestock development.

The Awkar Programme, which the agreement brings to life, aims to modernize the livestock sector by enhancing production, improving productivity, increasing processing capabilities, and expanding access to both national and international markets. The project will address critical gaps in livestock management by improving fodder production, enhancing genetic breeding techniques, and bolstering animal health services. In addition, new processing and marketing infrastructure will be established to facilitate value addition, ensuring that Mauritania's livestock products become more competitive on global markets. Special attention will be given to empowering women entrepreneurs involved in dairy processing, tanning, and leather goods, as well as supporting young people through vocational training and entrepreneurial development initiatives.