On Friday, October 2, Mauritania and Japan signed documents for two grants totaling 800 million Japanese yen, equivalent to approximately 203 million ouguiya, to finance food assistance and economic and social development programs. The agreements were signed in Nouakchott, the capital city of Mauritania. This significant financial commitment from Japan aims to bolster Mauritania's efforts in achieving food sovereignty and supporting its economic development.
The first grant, worth 400 million yen, will be allocated to acquire equipment, supplies, and services for agricultural and vocational training institutions. The beneficiary institutions include the National School for Agricultural Training and Guidance, the School of Vocational and Technical Education, the Center for Producer Training, and the Higher School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine. These institutions play a crucial role in enhancing the skills of Mauritania's workforce in the agricultural and related sectors.
The second grant, also valued at 400 million yen, will support income-generating projects and the replenishment of the national strategic grain reserve. Additionally, it aims to contribute to the regular supply of the market and stabilize the prices of basic food items. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on food security and the overall economy of Mauritania.
According to Mauritania's Minister of Economic Affairs and Development, Abdallah Souleymane Cheikh Sidya, these grants are a testament to the strong partnership between Mauritania and Japan. He highlighted the importance of these projects in supporting the country's efforts to achieve food sovereignty and promote sustainable economic development.
Japanese Ambassador to Mauritania, Ochida Hiroyuki, provided further details on the implementation of the food assistance component. He stated that the rice provided as part of the assistance will be sold in Mauritanian markets. The revenue generated from these sales will be used by the Food Security Commission to fund food assistance and small income-generating projects.
The support from Japan is expected to have a significant impact on Mauritania's agricultural sector and its ability to ensure food security for its population. By investing in vocational training and supporting income-generating projects, the grants will contribute to the country's long-term economic development and resilience.
The partnership between Mauritania and Japan in the areas of food security and economic development underscores the commitment of both countries to work together to address pressing development challenges. This collaboration is a positive step towards achieving sustainable development goals and improving the livelihoods of Mauritania's citizens.
Key points
- Japan grants Mauritania 203 million ouguiya to support food assistance and economic development.
- The grants will finance agricultural training and income-generating projects.
- The initiative aims to enhance food sovereignty and stabilize food prices in Mauritania.
