FAO Workshop Launches Hydro-Agricultural Development Project in Mauritania

Mauritania, December 2024 – The FAO has initiated a major project to modernize hydro-agricultural development in the Senegal River Valley and foster resilience to climate change through a comprehensive strategy. The inception workshop, held in Boghé, formally launched the project “Technical support to the National Society for Rural Development for the updating of the master plan for hydro-agricultural developments in the Senegal River Valley in Mauritania and the development of a climate investment plan” (TCP/MAU/4001). 

This initiative seeks to update the master plan for the region and develop a climate investment strategy extending to 2050. It aims to strengthen agricultural productivity, establish sustainable food systems, and address environmental challenges critical to the region’s future. As one of Mauritania’s key agricultural areas, the Senegal River Valley stands to benefit significantly from this concerted effort to modernize and adapt to changing climate conditions. 

During the workshop, Karl Morteo and Gianluca Franceschini, FAO Information Technology Officers, presented FAO Agro-Informatics Platform. ‘This advanced geospatial technology integrates data collection, analysis, and sharing to support the project’s goals’ explains Karl Morteo. ‘By enabling the organization and harmonization of local and geospatial data, the platform provides a solid foundation for informed decision-making and effective implementation and we want to promote its broad use in Mauritania and worldwide, for common benefits’ he adds. 

The workshop also facilitated in-depth discussions among participants, including government officials, local administrators, and agricultural experts, to ensure the project reflects stakeholder expectations and addresses regional priorities. ‘The exchange of ideas focused on ensuring alignment with local needs and fostering collaborative partnerships to achieve sustainable outcomes’ says Gianluca Franceschini. 

Through this initiative, FAO Mauritania aims to enhance its agricultural systems, strengthen climate resilience, and pave the way for equitable and environmentally sound development. The workshop represented a key step in establishing a unified approach to tackling agricultural challenges while leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering inclusive stakeholder engagement.