Regional Network for Integrated Waste Management *

The Regional Network for Integrated Waste Management in Mauritania is a national development initiative launched in 2012 to transform the country’s waste management systems through decentralized, sustainable, and community-led approaches. Developed under the SWEEP-Net program (Solid Waste Exchange of Information and Expertise Network in the Middle East and North Africa Region-MENA), the project addresses both urban and rural waste challenges while leveraging collaboration and traditional practices.

The project envisions to position Mauritania as a “regional model for sustainable waste management in West Africa,” aligning with the country’s National Strategy for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

It aims to enhance environmental sustainability and socio-economic resilience by developing integrated, decentralized, and inclusive waste management systems. By combining local knowledge and regional expertise, the project focuses on improving waste collection, increasing recycling, and reducing environmental pollution, emphasizing on economic empowerment through green job creation in the water sector, mainly for youth and women.

To implement this vision, a multi-phase regional development program was established under SWEEP-Net, combining pilot projects, national strategies, regional coordination, and community capacity-building.

The operationalize its vision, the project emphasizes key components, includes:

Project area: Nouakchott, Nouadhibou, and Rosso .

Infrastructure: Includes solar-powered waste facilities, recycling centers for plastics, metals, and organics, and low-cost collection xixMauritania’s climate.

Facilities: Pilot composting units, biogas digesters, and material recovery facilities.

Public Engagement: Awareness campaigns targeting littering, reuse, and behavior change, reaching both urban and rural communities.

The initiative embraces circular economy principles, blending traditional communal waste practices with modern sustainable technologies.

The Ministry of Environment of Mauritania leads the project with GIZ, UNCRD, and SWEEP-Net as international partners. Local municipalities and NGOs like Association Mauritanienne pour la Protection de l’Environnement (AMPE) support the community engagement. Implementation occurs in three phases:

Phase 1 (2012–2015): Baseline assessments and pilot collection systems in Nouakchott.

Phase 2 (2016–2020): Expansion to Nouadhibou and Rosso, establishment of recycling centers.

Phase 3 (2021–Ongoing): Nationwide rollout and integration of circular economy practices.

As of 2023, phase 3 continues, with key infrastructure being expanded. While major urban hubs are advancing, rural implementation faces funding constrains. Ongoing SWEEP-Net collaboration fosters cross-border knowledge sharing and technical support. The long-term vision targets reduced landfill reliance and green job creation through improved systems.