Background

The Project consists in the financing, design, construction and operation of an integrated coastal protection infrastructure and urban development project in the city of Nouakchott (Mauritania). The scope of the Project includes the restoration of a 12km dune ridge, a 6km dike-road, a “Sea Boulevard” between the heart of the city and its fish market, and two “city-sea green axes” with planted and recreational spaces. The Project will be phased between 2023 and 2027.

Nouakchott, the capital city of Mauritania, is home to c. 1 million inhabitants. The high growth and poorly controlled development of the city has made it increasingly exposed to critical risks of costal erosion and groundwater flooding, fostered by climate change.

The project aims at protecting the city against those risks whilst simultaneously improving the quality of life for the local population by providing attractive public spaces integrated into the city’s urban planning and mobility scheme. The project will be developed and implemented by a public-private company jointly owned by TURF B and the Government of Mauritania, the Société d’Aménagement du Littoral de Nouakchott (SALN).

Stage

Commercial Close

ESG Matters

The project is expected to produce significant positive impacts for the environment and the population of the city of Nouakchott, especially vulnerable groups:

• At least 75,000 inhabitants in low-lying areas of Nouakchott will be protected against flooding and benefit from new drainage solutions
• Local materials (such as local plants) will be used for building construction and dune restoration;
  • The Project will create opportunities for vegetable farming or plant nurseries
• Integration of renewable energy production is currently being assessed
• Freight traffic will be diverted from the city centre, resulting in reduced emissions and safety
• Additional recreational facilities will be created along the coastline

A detailed ESIA will be launched as a priority study and an E&S officer will be recruited to supervise those studies and ensure project development in line with IFC Performance Standards.

Sources:

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