Project to protect and enhance the Nouakchott coastline

Mauritania is recognized as one of the most vulnerable African countries to the effects of climate change, particularly due to the erosion of its coastline. 40% of Nouakchott is now located in flood-prone areas. The degradation of the natural dune cordon that surrounds the city accentuates therisk of flooding.

In response to this challenge, The UMDF will finance part of the architectural and urban planningstudies aimed at strengthening the city‘s resilience to climatic hazards, while contributing to thedevelopment and attractiveness of the coastal zone, generating economic opportunities and improvingthe quality of life of its inhabitants.

The project relies in particular on nature-based solutions: 12km of dune cordon will be consolidated and revegetated. Walking trails will be laid out to strengthen the dunes, not weaken them. The development of two of the city-sea axis traffic routes will include vegetated and recreational spaces and contribute to water drainage solutions for rainwater evacuation systems, while boosting exchanges between the city and the coast.

Priority will be given to soft mobility and natural materials. Construction on the coast will be rationalized and planned. The project will benefit the inhabitants of Nouakchott, and in particular the 75,000 people living in the coastal areas, which are among the capital‘s most vulnerable.

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Outputs

• An urbanism study

• A land use plan

• A master plan for the entire project

• Architectural and layout specifications

Outcomes

• Preparatory studies completed for the consolidation of 12km of dune cordon and the creation of traffic lanes.

• Project ready for financing by the AfDB and its partners.

Infrastructure

• Consolidation of 12km of dune cordon

• Access roads and landscaping

Expected Final Impact

• Protection of the city against flooding and submersion

• Creation of economic opportunities for local residents