Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani recently met with local officials in Adrar, where he discussed the country's internal migration crisis. He stated that the absence of development hubs in internal city capitals has exacerbated the phenomenon of people leaving these areas for Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. This trend, he warned, threatens the very existence of these internal cities. The President emphasized that the lack of development has made these cities uninhabitable.

According to President Ghazouani, the absence of development in internal cities has led to a massive exodus of residents with financial means. He noted that this phenomenon is counterproductive to development and has severe consequences. The President described the situation as "bad" and one that does not offer any prospects or hope for the future. He stressed that the influx of migrants to Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, which are already struggling to provide basic services, is putting a strain on these cities.

President Ghazouani highlighted the consequences of neglecting internal city development, citing continued migration to Nouakchott and Nouadhibou as a prime example. He warned that this trend could lead to the "killing" of internal cities. To address this issue, the President pledged to work on creating organized economic activities in internal states and rehabilitating urban areas. This, he believes, will provide these cities with the necessary tools for development and enhance their ability to attract residents and economic activities.

The President announced that the government is preparing comprehensive plans to address the development of internal cities. Part of the resources previously allocated to these cities will be redirected towards establishing development hubs and improving the urban landscape of major cities and state capitals. This initiative aims to stimulate economic growth and provide opportunities for residents in internal cities.

President Ghazouani expressed his optimism about launching this development drive in the coming period. Despite international circumstances that have affected priorities and resources, he assured that work will continue. The President's statements highlight the government's commitment to addressing the internal migration crisis and promoting development in neglected areas.

The issue of internal migration has significant implications for Mauritania's development and stability. President Ghazouani's comments underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of this phenomenon. By investing in internal cities and creating economic opportunities, the government hopes to reverse the trend of migration to urban centers.

The Mauritanian government's efforts to address internal migration and promote development in internal cities are crucial to the country's future. President Ghazouani's pledge to prioritize these areas is a step in the right direction. The success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and coordination between government agencies and local stakeholders.

Key points

  • President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani warns that lack of development in internal cities is driving migration to Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
  • The President pledges to create economic activities and rehabilitate urban areas in internal states.
  • The government aims to redirect resources to establish development hubs and improve the urban landscape of major cities and state capitals.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.