In a recent cabinet reshuffle, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania's new government, led by Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay, has appointed Mohamed Ould Abdel Vetah as the Minister of Energy and Petroleum. This move marks the return of the Mauritanian engineer and technocrat to a ministerial position he previously held. Ould Abdel Vetah's appointment was made on October 10, 2026, and he is expected to take up his new role on October 12, 2026.
Mohamed Ould Abdel Vetah has a strong background in the energy sector, having previously served as Minister of Energy, Petroleum, and Mines from August 2016. He also has experience working in the private sector, including stints as a consultant for TOTAL E&P Mauritanie and as a representative for STERLING ENERGY in Mauritania. Additionally, he served as the Director General of SOMAGAZ from January 2016. His expertise in the energy sector is expected to be valuable in his new role.
Before his appointment as Minister, Ould Abdel Vetah was the High Commissioner of the Organization for the Development of the Senegal River (OMVS), a position he has held since November 4, 2022. During his tenure at OMVS, he worked closely with the four member states - Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal - on major cooperation projects. His term as High Commissioner is set to expire on November 4, 2026.
Mohamed Ould Abdel Vetah has a strong educational background, holding a doctorate in computer science from the University of Paris XI, which he obtained in 2005. He also holds a master's degree from the University of Nancy and a DEUG from the University of Nice. Born on March 1, 1977, in Rosso, Mauritania, Ould Abdel Vetah is married with four children and speaks French, Arabic, and English.
As Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Ould Abdel Vetah will be responsible for overseeing the country's energy sector, which is a strategic area for Mauritania. His experience in the sector, combined with his knowledge of regional cooperation, is expected to be an asset in his new role. The first Council of Ministers for the new government is scheduled for October 14, 2026.
Ould Abdel Vetah's appointment has been welcomed by those who know him, who describe him as a highly competent and loyal individual. His ability to work well with others and his commitment to his work have earned him respect in his field. As he takes on his new role, he will be expected to navigate the complexities of the energy sector and contribute to the development of Mauritania.
The new government's priorities are expected to include addressing energy and petroleum issues, as well as strengthening regional cooperation. With Ould Abdel Vetah at the helm of the energy sector, Mauritania is likely to see continued progress in these areas. His experience and expertise will be crucial in shaping the country's energy policy and promoting cooperation with neighboring countries.
Key points
- Mohamed Ould Abdel Vetah's appointment as Minister of Energy and Petroleum marks his return to a ministerial role in Mauritania.
- Ould Abdel Vetah has a strong background in the energy sector, with experience working in both the public and private sectors.
- His appointment is expected to contribute to the development of Mauritania's energy sector and regional cooperation.
