Mauritania's National Company for Rural Development (Sonader) and the National Agency for Technical and Vocational Training (Takhwin) have signed a partnership agreement to train 30 retirees from the armed forces and security agencies. The agreement focuses on providing practical training in agricultural project management and operating and maintaining agricultural machinery and equipment. This initiative aims to equip retirees with new skills to enhance their employability and contribute to the country's agricultural sector.
The training program is divided into two areas of specialization: 12 beneficiaries will receive training in agricultural project management, while 18 will learn how to operate and maintain agricultural machinery and equipment. The training will take place at Sonader's regional office in the city of Rosso from September 24 to December 11, 2026. This program is part of a broader effort to support the reintegration of retirees into civilian life and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Sonader's General Manager, Hamada Ould Didi Ould Sid Ahmed, emphasized that the agreement allows beneficiaries to leverage the company's expertise and resources in the agricultural sector. He confirmed Sonader's commitment to supporting the initiative and mobilizing available resources to achieve its objectives. This partnership highlights Sonader's role in promoting rural development and supporting the country's economic diversification efforts.
Takhwin's General Manager, Mohamed Mahfouz Ibrahim Ahmed, noted that the agreement reflects a strategic shift towards making professional institutions and productive sectors key partners in the training and skills development process. He added that this approach enables trainees to move beyond acquiring skills in training institutions to applying and refining them in the field. This methodology has already proven successful in previous phases.
The partnership has previously enabled the training of over 85 retirees from the armed forces and security agencies in three batches. The current phase focuses on practical training within professional institutions, building on the success of previous initiatives. By providing hands-on experience, the program aims to equip retirees with the skills and confidence needed to engage in agricultural activities.
The agricultural sector is a significant contributor to Mauritania's economy, and initiatives like this one are crucial for promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting rural development. By investing in the skills and capacities of retirees, the government and its partners aim to enhance food security, promote economic growth, and improve living standards in rural areas.
The training program is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the 30 retirees and their communities. By acquiring new skills and knowledge, beneficiaries will be better equipped to engage in agricultural activities, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the country's economic development. The partnership between Sonader and Takhwin demonstrates the commitment of Mauritanian institutions to supporting the reintegration of retirees and promoting sustainable development.
Key points
- The agreement aims to train 30 retirees from the armed forces and security agencies in agricultural project management and operating and maintaining agricultural machinery and equipment.
- The training program is part of a broader effort to support the reintegration of retirees into civilian life and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
- The partnership has previously enabled the training of over 85 retirees from the armed forces and security agencies in three batches.
