The Mauritanian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty organized a workshop in Nouakchott to launch the National Action Plan for the Irrigation Strategy in the Sahel 2026-2035. The event was held in collaboration with the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) and several technical and financial partners. The one-day meeting aimed to present and discuss the national plan's key components, developed within the framework of the regional irrigation strategy for Sahel countries.
The National Action Plan focuses on several key areas, including the development and rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure, by modernizing traditional irrigation networks and establishing modern, water-efficient irrigation systems. It also emphasizes the valuation of water resources through sustainable exploitation of surface and groundwater, dams, and lakes. Furthermore, the plan aims to support small-scale farmers by providing agricultural inputs, accessible financing, and training on modern irrigation techniques.
The plan also seeks to enhance climate resilience by adopting drought-resistant crop varieties and smart irrigation technologies. According to the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, the plan aligns with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani's directives to achieve food sovereignty. He stressed that developing irrigation is a crucial foundation for advancing the agricultural sector and reducing dependence on climate conditions.
The representative of CILSS noted that the regional irrigation strategy aims to double the irrigated areas in Sahel countries by 2035. He highlighted that Mauritania has significant potential to achieve this goal. The workshop was attended by representatives from various sectors, including water and environment, as well as agencies under the Ministry, farmer organizations, and representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Bank, and the European Union.
The workshop's participants will discuss and agree on practical recommendations to activate the National Action Plan and establish a mechanism for monitoring its implementation at the regional and local levels. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve agricultural productivity and resilience in the face of climate change in the Sahel region.
The National Action Plan for Irrigation Strategy in the Sahel is a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of food security and climate change in Mauritania. By focusing on irrigation development, the plan aims to increase agricultural production, improve farmers' livelihoods, and contribute to the country's economic growth.
The successful implementation of this plan will depend on effective collaboration among all stakeholders, including government agencies, international partners, and local communities. With the right support and resources, Mauritania can make significant progress in achieving its food sovereignty goals and enhancing the resilience of its agricultural sector.
Key points
- The plan aims to double the irrigated areas in Sahel countries by 2035.
- The initiative focuses on supporting small-scale farmers and enhancing climate resilience.
- The plan was developed in collaboration with CILSS and several technical and financial partners.
