Content
The marine area beyond Mauritania’s territorial sea – the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – is one of the most fish-rich regions in the world. Around 300,000 people are employed here in the fisheries sector. The coastal zone serves as an important habitat and is protected by two national parks. However, there is a lack of protective measures for spawning grounds, especially for species that are already overfished.
Although fish consumption has increased, many people in rural areas still face food insecurity. Since a large share of the catch is exported, fish remains unaffordable for poorer segments of the population.
Objective
Fishery resources are used in an environmentally sustainable way to contribute to food security in Mauritania.
Approach
The project focuses on protecting the spawning grounds of vulnerable fish stocks that are essential for human nutrition. Only through better management can these resources be used sustainably over the long term.
The project also helps monitoring institutions to collect representative stock data and share information with regional and international stakeholders.
Furthermore, the project ensures that hygiene standards are met and more high-quality fish products are available. The aim here is to reach more segments of the population through a greater variety of products and new distribution channels, such as subsidised school meals.
The project collaborates with environmental stakeholders to develop biodiversity-friendly approaches and helps the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) to build on documented positive interactions.
Last updated: March 2025