Context of the project

As part of the RIMDIR program (Renforcement des Investissements Productifs et Energétiques en Mauritanie pour le Développement Durable des zones Rurales), implemented by Enabel, SHER has produced a technical and economic reference framework for rural infrastructures in Mauritania. 

This program aims at improving the governance of rural infrastructures by strengthening technical capacities and communication between stakeholders.

The reference guide covered thirteen types of infrastructures, grouped into five themes: 

  • Hydro-agricultural facilities: contour bunds, market gardens and small village irrigation systems 
  • Pastoral developments: solar-pumped watering systems, livestock markets, slaughter areas, vaccination parks and firewalls 
  • Linear and sheet erosion control facilities 
  • Surface water mobilization and storageInfrastructure: small dams, boulis and overgrown ponds 
  • Infrastructure to improve access: crossing structures 

The reference system capitalises on good practice and feedback from experience at national and sub-regional level, addressing the technical, economic and social dimensions in order to help decision-making. The work is based on data and information from a large number of stakeholders (ministries, projects and programs, consultancies, professional groups, NGOs, etc.) Its aesthetic and educational qualities make it a popular and widely used tool. 

Each type of infrastructure is presented in a data sheet including technical appendices, a summary sheet and a diagnostic form, totaling over 600 pages! It was essential to ensure that the documents are easy to read and understand. The summary sheets were translated into Arabic. 

SHER is also in charge of drafting two maintenance guides for technicians and committees in frenchand four local languages (Wolof, Soninké, Pullar and Hassanya). 

The mission is complemented by a capacity-building component for the technical departments in charge of rural infrastructure and other key actors in the sector.