Mauritania Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Mauritania, State of West Africa; 1 million km², 4.4 million residents (2018).Mauritania borders in the northwest and north to Western Sahara, in the northeast to Algeria, in the east to Mali and in the south to Mali and Senegal and to the west coast to the Atlantic. The capital is Nouakchott (899 900 residents, 2014).

Country facts

al-Jumhūriyya al-Islāmiyya al-Mūrītāniyya (Arabic)
Republic of Mauritania (French) /
Islamic Republic of Mauritania
Country abbreviation: MR
Area: 1 million km²
Population (2019): 4.4 million residents
Capital: Nouakchott
Main languages: Arabic, French
State: Republic
Head of State: Mohamed Ould Ghazouani
Head of Government: Ismail Ould Bedda Ould Cheikh Sidiya
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 1,211
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1,190
Coin unit: 1 ouquiya = 5 khoums
Currency code: MRO
Country number (telephony): 222
Internet domain name: mr
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: November 28 (Independence Day, 1960)

Nature

Land use: forest (4%), other (mainly desert, 96%)
Highest mountain: Kediat Idjil (915 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 4 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.7%; birthrate 34 ‰, deathrate 7 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (40%), 15-64 (57%), 65- (3%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 63 years, women 66 years
Infant mortality (2019): 54 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 9 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.520 (place 159 of 188)
Urbanization rate (2019): 54%
Most populous city (2014): Nouakchott (899,900 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (18%), industry (29%), service (43%)
Exports of goods (2017): US $ 1 722 million
Main export products: iron ore, fish, gold
Main exporting countries: China, Switzerland, Spain
Imports of goods (2017): USD 2,094 million
Main import products: machinery, oil, capital goods
Main Importing Countries: Belgium, United Arab Emirates, USA
Railway network (2014): 700 km

Geography of Mauritania

Location and Boundaries

Mauritania is located in the western part of the Sahara Desert in North West Africa. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Senegal to the southwest, Mali to the east and southeast, Algeria to the northeast, and Western Sahara to the north. The geographical position of Mauritania places it at a crossroads between Sub-Saharan Africa and the Arab world, which has influenced its culture, economy, and political systems over the centuries.

Mauritania covers an area of about 1,030,700 square kilometers, making it the 11th-largest country in Africa. Its vast, mostly arid landscape is dominated by desert terrain, with large stretches of sandy dunes, rocky plateaus, and mountainous regions in the north. The country’s interior is largely a part of the Sahara, while the southern and southwestern regions are characterized by more fertile land and river valleys.

Terrain and Landscape

Mauritania’s landscape is varied, with the Sahara Desert stretching across the northern two-thirds of the country. This arid region is sparsely populated and consists mainly of sand dunes, rocky plains, and the occasional oasis. The central and southern regions of Mauritania are more fertile and have some grasslands and vegetation, which support agriculture, livestock farming, and fishing. The country’s coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean are particularly rich in resources, and they are important for both fishing and trade.

The country’s most notable geographical feature is the Adrar Mountains in the northern part of the country, which rise up to about 915 meters (3,002 feet). The mountain range is a significant point of interest for tourists and geologists, as it offers some of the country’s most scenic landscapes, including ancient petroglyphs and other archaeological finds.

Rivers and Lakes

Mauritania is home to some important rivers, although many are seasonal and often dry up during the hottest months. The Senegal River, which forms a natural boundary between Mauritania and Senegal, is the most significant river in the country. The river plays a key role in agriculture, particularly in the production of crops such as rice, and is also a source of water for the population.

In the southern regions, the River Gorgol and the smaller Kédia River provide water for farming and settlement. Mauritania’s lakes and wetlands, particularly in the south and southwest, are crucial for agriculture, but these bodies of water are also threatened by desertification and climate change.

Climate of Mauritania

Hot Desert Climate

Mauritania experiences a hot desert climate that is characteristic of the Saharan region. The country faces extreme temperature variations, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) in the desert regions. The coastal areas are slightly cooler due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, which moderates temperatures. However, in the interior, temperatures can soar even higher, with some regions reaching 50°C (122°F) during the hottest months.

Rainfall is sparse across most of Mauritania, and the country is considered one of the driest in Africa. The coastal areas, however, receive slightly more rainfall than the desert interior, particularly in the southern regions. The rainy season typically occurs between July and September, but the amount of rainfall varies greatly from year to year. Due to this unpredictability, the southern areas, which are more suitable for agriculture, remain vulnerable to droughts.

Wind and Dust Storms

The climate of Mauritania is also affected by frequent sand and dust storms, particularly in the desert regions. These storms can significantly reduce visibility, cause damage to crops, and make everyday life more challenging. The presence of the desert wind, known as the “Khamsin,” adds to the harsh conditions in the country, carrying dust and sand across large distances, sometimes even reaching coastal cities like Nouakchott.

The annual temperatures, coupled with the extreme conditions of droughts and sandstorms, make Mauritania’s climate one of the harshest in the world, making both human habitation and agriculture difficult outside of the more fertile southern regions.

People of Mauritania

Population and Demographics

Mauritania has a population of approximately 4.5 million people, with the majority of the population living in the capital city, Nouakchott, and other urban centers. The country has a relatively low population density due to its vast desert regions and lack of water resources. About 50% of Mauritania’s population lives in rural areas, particularly in the southern parts of the country, where agriculture and livestock farming are the primary sources of livelihood.

Mauritania’s population growth has been steady, with a young population that faces challenges related to unemployment, limited access to healthcare, and poverty. The urbanization of the country has increased, particularly in the capital, as people migrate from rural areas in search of better opportunities.

Ethnicity and Languages

Mauritania is ethnically diverse, with a population that includes a mix of Arab-Berber and Sub-Saharan African peoples. The majority ethnic group is the Moors, a mix of Arabs and Berbers, who make up about 30-40% of the population. The Haratins, who are of sub-Saharan African descent, are another significant group, making up a large portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. There are also smaller ethnic groups, including the Fula, Soninke, and Wolof, who primarily reside in the southern regions of the country.

The official language of Mauritania is Arabic, with Modern Standard Arabic used in government and education. Hassaniya, a variety of Arabic, is the most widely spoken language among the Mauritanian population. French is also widely spoken and used in business and education, as Mauritania was a French colony until its independence in 1960. Additionally, local languages such as Pulaar, Soninke, and Wolof are spoken by various ethnic groups, particularly in the southern regions.

Religion and Beliefs

Islam is the dominant religion in Mauritania, and nearly 100% of the population identifies as Muslim. The majority of Mauritanians adhere to Sunni Islam, and the country has a strong Islamic identity that permeates all aspects of daily life, including law, education, and social practices. The practice of Islam is deeply embedded in Mauritanian culture, and religious observance is high. Major Islamic holidays such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha are celebrated with enthusiasm throughout the country.

In addition to Sunni Islam, there are very small populations of Shia Muslims and non-Muslim religious groups in Mauritania, but they make up less than 1% of the population. Although the country is officially secular, Islamic traditions govern much of Mauritanian society, and Islamic law (Sharia) plays a significant role in the country’s legal system.

Economy of Mauritania

Economic Overview

Mauritania’s economy is largely based on natural resources, including mining, agriculture, and fishing. The country has a relatively small and underdeveloped industrial base, and much of the population relies on agriculture and livestock for subsistence. Mauritania’s economy is highly dependent on exports, particularly of iron ore, fish, and oil. Despite the country’s wealth of natural resources, it remains one of the poorest in the world, with significant challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.

Mauritania is heavily reliant on foreign aid and investment, particularly from countries like China, France, and the United States. Economic growth has been moderate, but the country’s dependence on natural resource exports makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. The government has made efforts to diversify the economy, focusing on infrastructure development, tourism, and expanding the mining sector.

Mining and Natural Resources

Mauritania is rich in natural resources, and mining plays a central role in the country’s economy. Iron ore is the country’s largest export, and Mauritania is one of the world’s top producers of this mineral. The country also produces other minerals such as copper, gold, and gypsum. The mining sector contributes significantly to the country’s GDP and provides employment opportunities, particularly in the regions around the capital.

In addition to minerals, Mauritania has significant oil reserves, though the oil sector is still in its developmental stages. The country began producing oil in the early 2000s, and oil exports have become increasingly important to the national economy. Mauritania is also home to offshore oil fields, which could further expand the oil industry’s role in the country’s economic growth in the coming decades.

Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture is crucial to the Mauritanian economy, particularly in the southern regions, where irrigation from the Senegal River supports crop farming. The country produces staple crops such as millet, sorghum, rice, and wheat, although food production is limited due to the arid climate and dependency on rainfall. The country imports a significant portion of its food, especially rice and wheat.

Livestock farming is an essential activity, with pastoralism being a primary livelihood for many Mauritanians. Sheep, cattle, and camels are raised in the more fertile southern regions, and Mauritania is one of the larger exporters of live animals in West Africa. The livestock sector is vulnerable to climate change and periods of drought, which can affect the supply of grazing land and water resources.

Fishing Industry

Fishing is another vital sector of Mauritania’s economy. The country’s exclusive fishing waters off the Atlantic coast are rich in fish, including tuna, sardines, and shrimp, which are vital for both local consumption and export. Mauritania has one of the largest fishing industries in West Africa, and its fisheries are a key source of foreign currency earnings.

The fishing sector has been a major contributor to Mauritania’s economic development, but it faces challenges, including overfishing and the management of sustainable fish stocks. International agreements on fishing quotas and partnerships with foreign companies have helped support the industry, but maintaining long-term sustainability remains a key concern for the country’s future.

Government of Mauritania

Political System and Structure

Mauritania is a republic with a semi-presidential system. The president is both the head of state and the head of government and is elected through a popular vote for a five-year term. The country has a bicameral legislature consisting of the National Assembly, which is the lower house, and the Senate, which is the upper house. The National Assembly has 157 members, who are elected every five years.

Mauritania has experienced political instability in its modern history, including several military coups. The country transitioned to a multiparty democratic system in the early 1990s after a history of military rule. Despite this, the military remains influential in the political process. The country’s political landscape has been marked by the dominance of the ruling party, which has been criticized for suppressing opposition and limiting political freedoms.

Governance and Rule of Law

Mauritania’s governance is characterized by a mix of modern institutions and traditional systems of authority, particularly in rural areas. The country’s legal system is based on a combination of French civil law and Islamic law (Sharia), with the latter playing a central role in the judicial system. The legal framework covers civil, criminal, and commercial law, and the judiciary is independent.

Despite this legal structure, there are ongoing concerns about the rule of law and human rights in Mauritania. The country has faced criticism from international organizations for its human rights record, particularly with regard to issues such as slavery, political repression, and the treatment of ethnic minorities.

Security and Military

The Mauritanian military plays a significant role in the country’s politics and has historically been a key player in the national governance. The military’s influence remains strong, especially after the 2008 coup, when General Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz seized power. While the country has made strides toward civilian governance, the military’s involvement in political affairs is still a prominent feature of Mauritanian politics.

Mauritania has a relatively small, but capable, military and has been involved in regional security efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel region. The country’s geographic location, near conflict zones in Mali and Algeria, makes it an important partner in regional counterterrorism initiatives, and it cooperates with both Western and Arab nations on security matters.

Culture of Mauritania

Traditions and Arts

Mauritania has a rich cultural heritage shaped by both Arab and African influences. Traditional Mauritanian music, often performed using instruments like the tidinit (a stringed instrument) and the drum, is an essential part of cultural celebrations. The country’s arts, such as calligraphy, pottery, and textiles, reflect its deep Islamic roots and African heritage.

Mauritania is known for its oral traditions, particularly poetry and storytelling. The role of the griot (oral historian) is still significant in Mauritanian society, and many traditional stories and songs are passed down through generations. These stories often depict the history of the country, its tribal customs, and the teachings of Islam.

Festivals and Cuisine

Mauritanian culture is heavily influenced by Islam, and the religious calendar dictates many cultural events and celebrations. Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha are the most significant religious festivals, and they are celebrated with family gatherings, communal prayers, and feasts. During these festivals, Mauritanians enjoy traditional dishes, such as couscous, lamb, and a variety of breads.

In addition to religious celebrations, there are various regional festivals and cultural events that highlight Mauritania’s traditions in music, dance, and crafts. These festivals are an opportunity for Mauritanians to showcase their heritage and reinforce community bonds. Music and dance are central to these gatherings, with the Mauritanian “melhoun” (poetic songs) and “teyro” (traditional dances) being popular forms of expression.

History of Mauritania

Early History and Ancient Civilizations

Mauritania’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of early human settlement in the region. The area was home to several early civilizations, including the Berbers, who established kingdoms and empires in the region. The Berber tribes of Mauritania were instrumental in the spread of Islam across North Africa, and the country’s historical development has been deeply influenced by its proximity to the Arab world.

Mauritania was part of the larger empires of ancient West Africa, including the Ghana Empire and the Almoravid Empire, which played key roles in trade and the spread of Islam. The region also saw significant interaction with the Carthaginian and Roman civilizations, though it was not directly under Roman control.

Colonial Era and Independence

In the late 19th century, Mauritania was colonized by France as part of French West Africa. Under French rule, Mauritania’s traditional systems of governance were undermined, and the region was integrated into the larger colonial economy. The French introduced new agricultural systems and infrastructure, but they also exploited the country’s natural resources and subjected the population to harsh labor conditions.

Mauritania gained independence from France in 1960, with Moktar Ould Daddah becoming the first president. However, the country continued to face challenges related to ethnic divisions, economic development, and political stability. The years following independence saw a series of political upheavals, including military coups, as different factions vied for power.

Modern History and Challenges

Mauritania’s modern history has been marked by political instability, military rule, and slow economic development. The country has struggled with ethnic tensions, particularly between the Arab-Berber Moors and the black African populations, which have led to social unrest and civil rights challenges.

In 2008, a military coup ousted the democratically elected president, and the military took control of the country. However, democratic reforms followed, and the country held its first peaceful transfer of power in 2019. Despite its democratic strides, Mauritania still faces ongoing challenges related to poverty, human rights, and the role of the military in politics. The government continues to face criticism for its handling of issues like slavery, ethnic discrimination, and its relationship with extremist groups in the Sahel.

Mauritania’s complex history and geopolitical position make it a key player in regional security and political dynamics in West Africa. Today, the country is striving to balance economic growth, political stability, and social progress while grappling with the legacies of its past.