Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani has emphasized the strategic importance of developing the country's oases to achieve food sovereignty. During a meeting with local officials in Adrar, he announced plans to establish an agency focused on oasis development and restructuring the institutional framework associated with it. This initiative aims to leverage the potential of oases to increase production and improve economic returns.
The proposed agency will build on previous experiences and investments in oasis development, which have included significant funding from the government and international partners, such as Arab funds. Over the years, Mauritania has established institutions like the Mauritanian Dates Company and the Palm Laboratory, gaining valuable expertise in oasis management. However, it is essential to assess what has worked and what hasn't, identifying areas for improvement to maximize the sector's contribution to food sovereignty and economic growth.
One of the critical challenges facing oasis development in Mauritania is water management. The president highlighted the need to address this issue, which is crucial for sustainable development. The country needs to accurately assess its groundwater reserves, explore deep groundwater resources, and implement efficient irrigation systems. Additionally, the use of solar energy for water pumping should be promoted, accompanied by regulations to prevent over-extraction and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital resource.
Another key aspect is connecting oasis production areas to markets, which is vital for the economic viability of these projects. Improving transportation infrastructure and services will help reduce costs and increase the value of oasis products. Furthermore, the government aims to support farmers and investors by providing technical assistance, research, and extension services, enabling them to adopt best practices and enhance productivity.
To increase the economic returns from oases, Mauritania plans to focus on improving productivity, quality, and product diversification. This will involve introducing high-yielding and marketable crop varieties, supporting farm modernization, and promoting value-added processing. The government also seeks to encourage private sector participation in oasis development, fostering partnerships that can bring in expertise, technology, and investment.
The new agency will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts, preparing projects, mobilizing funding, and attracting investment. Its success will depend on its ability to bring together various stakeholders and develop a comprehensive strategy for oasis development. By leveraging international expertise and best practices, Mauritania aims to create a thriving oasis sector that contributes significantly to food sovereignty and economic growth.
The financing of oasis development projects will be critical to their success. Mauritania has experience working with the Arab Development Fund, and it plans to expand its search for funding to include other Arab and Islamic funds. The government will also explore innovative financing mechanisms and partnerships with the private sector to support the development of its oases and achieve its food sovereignty goals.
Key points
- The new agency will focus on oasis development and restructuring the institutional framework to enhance food sovereignty and economic growth.
