Mauritania expands rural water projects - Mauritania and the African Development Bank recently signed new grant agreements in the water sector.
Multiple projects in the south-eastern and central regions of the country will help 34% of Mauritania's total rural population.
The February 12th accords call for new latrines at markets, schools and healthcare centres, water for small-scale irrigation and 22 new solar energy systems for drinking water. More than a quarter-million head of cattle will also have greater access to water.
Mauritania is among the Sahel countries most affected by drought, desertification and climate change. The government has designated the water, agriculture and livestock sectors as priorities for its development strategy.
The Aftout Charghi project, which will supply drinking water to over 249,000 people in 500 villages, is already one-third complete.
Magharebia/01/03/2013