The Mauritanian government spokesperson, Minister of Culture, Arts, Communication, and Relations with Parliament, Moustapha Ould Meddou, stated that the achievements of the past seven years under President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani have surpassed those of the country's founding. He made these remarks during a press conference following a cabinet meeting. Ould Meddou emphasized that the country's development has been cumulative since independence, with successive governments contributing to its growth.
The spokesperson highlighted the significant increase in the state's budget, which rose from approximately 600 billion ouguiya in 2019 to over 1 trillion ouguiya. He noted that this growth has been accompanied by expansion in various sectors, including health, education, and vocational training. The number of personnel has increased, and new facilities have been established, contributing to the development of universities, institutes, and public services.
Ould Meddou also pointed to the progress made in the water and energy sectors, citing projects such as those in Aftout, Boulenwar, and Edini. He mentioned that the road network has been expanded and improved during the same period. In the social sphere, he highlighted the interventions of the General Delegation for National Solidarity and Combating Exclusion (TAAZOR), which has allocated 280 billion ouguiya to support the most vulnerable populations.
The spokesperson provided an update on the Aftout-Attawil road project, stating that the allocated resources, financed by the Arab Economic and Social Development Fund, were transferred last month. He announced that the list of qualified companies for the project has been published and that the winning company will be selected within 45 days. The project is expected to commence in November under the supervision of the Ministry of Equipment and Transport.
In response to a question about a financial extortion network being investigated by the authorities, Ould Meddou explained that the case involves two aspects: financial corruption and moral corruption. He stated that the public authorities are working to identify and prosecute those responsible for financial corruption, while the judiciary is handling the files according to the law. He also emphasized the need to address the production and dissemination of content that promotes hatred and incitement.
The spokesperson reported that 17 individuals have been arrested in connection with the case and that the investigation is ongoing. He assured that the procedures are being carried out in accordance with the law, respecting the presumption of innocence and the rights of the detained individuals. He also noted that lawyers are free to monitor the situation of the detained individuals and ensure that their rights are respected.
Finally, Ould Meddou touched on the situation in the pastures, stating that the previous period had seen a deficit in rainfall compared to the previous year. However, recent rainfall has helped alleviate this deficit. He expressed hope that further rainfall will occur in the coming period, particularly in areas that still suffer from a shortage of rainfall, which will improve the pastoral situation. The minister also announced that the next edition of the Guel festival will take place in the first half of next year, likely in March or April.
Key points
- The Mauritanian government spokesperson highlighted the significant achievements of the past seven years, including a substantial increase in the state's budget and expansion in various sectors.
- The government has launched several projects to improve infrastructure, including roads, water, and energy.
- The authorities are working to combat financial corruption and moral corruption, with 17 individuals arrested in connection with a financial extortion network.