Mauritania is focusing on a major railway expansion project with the aim of boosting the country’s iron ore exports and improving its logistics capabilities. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is targeting the strategic project Started evaluating €113 million loan financingTotal cost of the project, including the purchase of new locomotives and freight wagons 461 million euros reaching.
Network Expansion to Strengthen Mauritania’s Export Potential
The project involves improving and expanding the existing railway line connecting Zouérat, one of the country’s iron ore production centres, with the port city of Nouadhibou. In this context, laying additional rails and extending the route to new mining areas It is also planned to acquire the necessary equipment for regular infrastructure maintenance.
State-owned mining company SNIM is implementing the project. The new line is expected to keep freight transport on railways and prevent it from shifting to roads, creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly transport network. According to government estimates, improving logistics will strengthen the country's position in the global raw materials market. The project will also create new jobs in the region and increase the resilience of Mauritania's transport infrastructure.
Rising International Investment in African Logistics and China’s Role
Interest in rail projects across Africa is growing, particularly from Chinese firms, highlighting the intensifying competition for access to the continent’s rich natural resources. Key developments include:
- Zambia-Tanzania Line Modernization: CCECC (China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation) launched a new project in March to modernise the TAZARA line, which connects Zambia's copper mines to the Tanzanian port of Dar es Salaam. Investing $1,4 billion suggested.
- Nigeria and Burundi Projects: In January, CCECC secured funding from the China Development Bank to build the Kaduna-Kano line in Nigeria, while in February, China Railway subsidiaries signed an agreement to build a new railway linking Burundi’s nickel field with Tanzania’s rail network and the port of Dar es Salaam.
By strengthening its infrastructure, Mauritania aims to maintain its competitiveness amidst the increasing international investments on the African continent. This railway project stands out as an important step that will not only increase Mauritania’s economic potential but also support regional integration and development.
