• Authorities plan to digitize services under the Ministry of Civil Service and Labour, including administrative processes and portals.

• The initiative remains at the discussion stage, with no implementation timeline announced.

• Youth unemployment remains high, with 47% of Mauritanians aged 18–35 actively seeking jobs.

Mauritania is accelerating the digitalization of public services. The latest step involves the dematerialization of the driver’s license application process. Authorities are also working to digitize services linked to the Ministry of Civil Service and Labour. The initiative aims to modernize the administration, simplify procedures, and improve citizens’ access to public services.

The project formed the focus of a meeting earlier this week between Mariem Boidiel Houmeid and Ahmed Salem Ould Bede.

During the meeting, the minister stated that the objective was to present the sector’s needs in terms of IT systems and service digitalization in order to identify appropriate solutions.

Authorities proposed several projects. These include the creation of a public service portal integrated into the “Khidmati” system, the launch of an administrative decision management service linked to the human resources system, and the digitalization of activities within the Directorate General of Labour and regional offices.

Ahmed Salem Ould Bede reaffirmed his department’s commitment to support the Ministry of Civil Service and Labour in implementing these priorities. He stated that his ministry would provide the necessary technical solutions and ensure interoperability between information systems. He also called for teamwork and rigorous coordination to accelerate the execution of proposed projects, which he said would directly improve service quality.

This initiative forms part of Mauritania’s broader digital transformation strategy. Authorities aim to leverage information and communication technologies to support development across all sectors of the economy. In public administration, the government prioritizes process and service digitalization to enhance transparency, productivity, and access for citizens.

Improving productivity and efficiency within the Ministry of Civil Service and Labour could support better service delivery and strengthen the labor market. According to Afrobarometer data published in 2024, 47% of Mauritanians aged 18 to 35 are unemployed and actively seeking work. This figure slightly exceeds the national average of 44%. The report also states that 26% of young people remain unemployed and do not seek work.

However, the digitalization process remains at the discussion stage. Authorities have not announced any timeline. Therefore, stakeholders will need to await further developments to assess implementation progress and potential impacts.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum