Is Mauritania a Black Country?

One of Africa's newest oil producers, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania bridges the Arab Maghreb and western sub-Saharan Africa. The largely-desert country presents a cultural contrast, with an Arab-Berber population to the north and black Africans to the south. Many of its people are nomads.

What is Mauritania known for?

Mauritania has extensive deposits of iron ore, which account for almost 50% of total exports. Gold and copper mining companies are opening mines in the interior such as Firawa mine. The country's first deepwater port opened near Nouakchott in 1986.

Is Mauritania a key player in West Africa's economic landscape?

Amid regional pressures, Mauritania is also striving to enhance its infrastructure and attract foreign investment, positioning itself as a key player in West Africa’s economic landscape. Image credit: Shutterstock / Homo Cosmicos At a cursory glance with no background knowledge, one might be forgiven for writing off Mauritania.

Why is Mauritania a nomadic country?

Much of Mauritania encompasses part of the Sahara desert, and, until the drought conditions that affected most of that zone of Africa in the 1970s, a large proportion of the population was nomadic.

Why is Mauritania a major transit point for migrants from West Africa?

Mauritania is also a major transit point for migrants from West Africa shooting for Europe. This year, the EU granted the country EUR210 million in aid, of which EUR60 million is simply earmarked to tackle illegal immigration to Europe.

Why is Mauritania a poor country?

Despite an abundance of natural resources, including iron ore and petroleum, Mauritania remains poor; its economy is based primarily on agriculture, livestock, and fishing. Mauritania is culturally and politically part of the Arab world; it is a member of the Arab League and Arabic is the official language.