The regional consultations on livestock, fishing, and aquaculture were held in Bougouni, Mauritania, from October 7-8, 2026. The event was presided over by Brigadier General Ousmane Wélé, the governor of the Bougouni region. The consultations brought together producers, breeders, fishermen, aquaculturists, professional organizations, technical services, local authorities, and other stakeholders who contribute to the region's economic and social development.
The consultations revealed that the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors are crucial for food and nutritional security, job creation, household income improvement, and regional economic development. Participants emphasized the need to support actors, particularly women and young people, to enable them to contribute to wealth creation and production system transformation. The discussions also highlighted the importance of addressing challenges facing these sectors.
The consultations led to several recommendations, including the full implementation of the pastoral scheme, development of livestock product value chains, and measures to protect watercourses and watersheds. Participants also suggested promoting fodder crops, cage fish farming, and restocking watercourses. Additionally, they recommended constructing abattoirs and livestock markets to ensure food security and building infrastructure for processing, packaging, and conservation.
Further recommendations included creating adapted breeds for local conditions, implementing a program to combat invasive plant species, and equipping technical services with logistical means. The participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to develop the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors in the Bougouni region. These recommendations will inform the national policy on livestock, fishing, and aquaculture.
In his closing speech, Governor Ousmane Wélé encouraged professional organizations to continue structuring and collaborating with technical services, local authorities, and development partners. He commended the participants from the ten circles of the Bougouni region for their contributions, which formed the basis of the regional meeting. The governor invited them to maintain the consultation dynamic beyond the current meeting.
The regional consultations were preceded by grassroots consultations that gave a voice to various stakeholders. These consultations were conducted over two days and enabled participants to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions. The event demonstrated the commitment of stakeholders to work together to develop the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors in the Bougouni region.
The successful conclusion of the regional consultations in Bougouni marks a significant step towards developing the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors in Mauritania. The recommendations and contributions from the participants will inform policy decisions and guide future interventions in these sectors.
Key points
- The consultations emphasized the importance of supporting women and young people in the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors.
- Participants recommended the full implementation of the pastoral scheme and development of livestock product value chains.
- The event demonstrated the commitment of stakeholders to work together to develop the livestock, fishing, and aquaculture sectors in the Bougouni region.
