Madar (Nouakchott) - The World Bank Group said on Friday, October 16, 2026, that Mauritania is one of eight countries that have launched national partnerships and "compacts" to develop their metals and minerals sectors, setting priorities, commitments and measurable targets to guide reforms, increase investment and create jobs, according to a statement issued in Bangkok, where the group is holding its Annual Meetings.
Alongside Mauritania, the list includes Argentina, Bolivia, Egypt, India, Kazakhstan, Malawi and Zambia. According to the statement, the plans set out actions including modernising mineral licensing and geological data, strengthening environmental and social oversight, expanding energy and transport infrastructure, and developing local workers and suppliers.
The bank said the "Mauritanian Compact" establishes a common strategic framework for unlocking the country's abundant mineral resources and renewable energy potential, and defines pathways for low-emission mineral value creation that promotes job creation and local economic development. The statement quoted Mohamed Salem Nany, Mauritania's Director General of Finance and Economic Cooperation, as saying: "The mining sector plays a strategic role in our economy."
The bank plans to increase its metals and minerals support fivefold to $19 billion between fiscal years 2026 and 2030, combining its own financing with private capital mobilisation: the World Bank will provide policy advice and public financing, IFC will invest and mobilise private capital, and MIGA will provide guarantees to manage risk. The statement did not specify an amount for Mauritania.
Mauritania was one of four countries, with Bolivia, Malawi and Zambia, that launched preliminary versions of these compacts at the Spring Meetings in April, according to the World Bank. In September, President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani said the mining sector suffers from regulatory shortcomings that limit its economic returns.
