Mauritania's Interior Minister, Moukhtar Ould Ahmed Busief, has emphasized the need for his sector's officials to improve performance and enhance efforts to maintain security, combat crime, and curb drug trafficking. He made these remarks during a meeting with the ministry's officials in Nouakchott on October 29, 2026, which was attended by the ministry's Secretary-General, Abd al-Rahman Ould al-Hassan.
The minister stressed the importance of preserving national unity, maintaining security and public order, and promoting a culture of responsibility among sector officials. He also called for better coordination and utilization of accumulated administrative expertise. Furthermore, he announced plans for regular consultative meetings within the ministry to foster institutional communication and encourage the exchange of ideas.
Minister Busief expressed his willingness to consider any initiative that contributes to developing work mechanisms in line with citizens' aspirations and President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani's directives. This approach aims to enhance the sector's responsiveness to citizens' needs and concerns. The minister's meeting with sector officials follows his recent discussion with the European Union's ambassador to Mauritania, Joaquin Tasso Villalonga.
During his meeting with the EU ambassador, Minister Busief explored areas of cooperation between Nouakchott and the European bloc, particularly in matters under the Interior Ministry's purview, such as irregular migration. The EU has been a key partner for Mauritania in addressing migration and security challenges. The Interior Ministry plays a crucial role in overseeing regional administration, internal security, and decentralization.
The minister's emphasis on combating crime and drug trafficking is a significant aspect of his sector's responsibilities. Mauritania has been working to strengthen its security apparatus and address transnational threats. The country has also been engaged in efforts to promote regional cooperation and information sharing to tackle these challenges effectively.
The Interior Ministry's plan for regular consultative meetings is expected to promote a more responsive and inclusive approach to governance. This initiative aligns with President El Ghazouani's vision for enhancing public administration and promoting citizen engagement. The ministry has not yet announced a specific timeline for these meetings.
Key aspects of Minister Busief's directives include a stronger focus on crime and drug control, regular consultative meetings within the ministry, and a commitment to fostering greater communication with citizens. These efforts aim to enhance the sector's effectiveness and responsiveness to citizens' needs.
Key points
- Minister Busief urges sector officials to intensify crime and drug control efforts.
- The minister announces plans for regular consultative meetings within the ministry.
- The EU has been a key partner for Mauritania in addressing migration and security challenges.
