With over three million inhabitants, 4% annual population growth and a territory of 70% desert, Mauritania’s main development challenge is sustainability. Development in the country must respond to present needs without compromising the livelihoods and environment of future generations.
DWS presence in Mauritania began in 1974 in response to a humanitarian crisis caused by severe drought. Over time, DWS Mauritania evolved from a large-scale humanitarian operation to a more concentrated development program working through local partnerships within the framework of Mauritania’s national poverty reduction policy.
DWS Mauritania is active in environmental protection, rural and urban development, and humanitarian response during emergency situations. DWS Mauritania’s approach promotes rights, dignity, justice, participation and transparency.
Current program focuses are:
• Emergency response
• Sustainable livelihoods
• HIV and AIDS
• Peace, reconciliation and human rights
• Gender equity
• Environmental protection
Emergencies
DWS Mauritania assists in acute emergency situations due to natural disaster related to climate change–droughts, flooding, locust invasions–and in ongoing crises caused by conflict and migration.
Sustainable Livelihoods
The program strives to empower communities to achieve an adequate standard of living through sustainable, holistic development.
HIV and AIDS
Working with vulnerable groups, DWS Mauritania contributes to efforts to reduce HIV infection, stigmatization and risk.
Peace, Reconciliation and Human Rights
Program activities aim to equip communities to exercise their rights, prevent conflict and participate in local and national decision-making.
Gender Equity
DWS Mauritania activities prioritize equal rights for women and men.
Environment
DWS Mauritania supports efforts to protect infrastructure from advancing sand dunes, and to manage limited natural resources in a sustainable manner.
For further information please contact:
Dr Colette Bouka Coula, Program Officer
Mr Kasongo Mutshaila, Country Representative
See Also
DWS Mauritania Web site | Department for World Service | DWS Country, Regional and Associate Programs
