OSS Hosts High-Level Mauritanian Delegation to Prepare for the Launch of PRAGOA and Strengthen Climate Cooperation

As part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between Mauritania and the Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS), a high-level Mauritanian delegation was welcomed at the OSS headquarters in Tunis on 25 and 26 September 2026 for a working mission dedicated to preparing the launch of the PRAGOA Mauritania project – Strengthening the Resilience of Communities in the Agropastoral and Oasis Ecosystems of Ziyara and Dhaya to the Adverse Effects of Climate Change in the Adrar Region.

The delegation was led by Mr. Moulaye Brahim Moulaye Driss, Secretary General of the Ministry, accompanied by Mr. Sidi Mohamed El Wavi, Special Adviser to the Minister. SOS Oasis Mauritania, the project’s national implementing partner, was represented by Mr. Mahah Mohamed, President, and Mr. Mohamed Fadel Aghdhafna, Resource Person.

The main objective of the mission was to discuss preparations for the launch of the PRAGOA project, scheduled for later in 2026, with a particular focus on implementation arrangements, institutional mechanisms, coordination among partners, and the next operational steps. Discussions also addressed other initiatives that could contribute to strengthening climate action in Mauritania and developing new opportunities for collaboration with the OSS.

Mauritania is among the countries highly exposed to the impacts of climate change, with growing pressures on water resources, agricultural land, ecosystems and the livelihoods of rural communities. In the oasis and agropastoral areas of Adrar, these pressures are increasing the vulnerability of communities whose livelihoods depend directly on natural resources.

Funded by the Adaptation Fund with US$10 million, the PRAGOA project aims to strengthen the resilience of communities in the agropastoral and oasis areas of Ziyara and Dhaya, in the municipality of Tawaz, Adrar Wilaya.

The project will be implemented at the national level by SOS-OASIS, in partnership with the relevant Mauritanian institutions, with support from the OSS in its capacity as an Adaptation Fund-accredited Regional Implementing Entity. PRAGOA adopts an integrated approach combining several adaptation measures, including improving access to and sustainable management of water, restoring land and ecosystems, promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, developing income-generating activities, and strengthening the capacities of local stakeholders.

Particular attention will be given to women and young people through the development of economic opportunities, training, and their involvement in local governance mechanisms.

This approach is based on a participatory process involving national institutions, local authorities, SOS-OASIS, technical services, civil society and beneficiary communities, with the aim of ensuring sustainable ownership of the interventions.

The mission of the Mauritanian delegation reflects the strong partnership dynamic between the OSS and Mauritania, aimed at translating climate commitments into concrete action for the benefit of people and ecosystems.