Mauritania stands as a leading iron ore and gold producer in Africa, leveraging its relative stability in the Sahel region to tap into vast mining potential. The country boasts over 900 mineral occurrences, including significant deposits of iron ore, copper, gold, silver, phosphates, quartz, diamonds, chromium, manganese, lead, zinc, platinum group metals, rare earths, gypsum, black sands, salts and peats.
In 2013, Mauritania produced 14 million metric tonnes (mt) of iron ore, positioning itself as the continent’s second-largest producer after South Africa. The nation holds a staggering 20 billion mt of iron ore reserves, with the Reguibat ridge in the north estimated to contain 2 billion mt. Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM), the state-owned mining company, manages the country’s iron ore mines, including Guelb El Rhein, Kedia d’Idjill, and M’Haoudat. SNIM aims to reach a production target of 45 million mt by 2030, supported by additional significant deposits at Tamagot, Legleitat, Tiferchai, and Kaouat.
Mauritania also excels in copper and gold production. The Guelb Moghrein deposit produced approximately 26,363 ounces of gold and 13,000 mt of copper in 2023. Operated by Mauritanian Copper Mines, a subsidiary of Canada’s First Quantum Minerals, the mine’s copper production has been rising since it began commercial operations in 2006.
The Tasiast Gold Mine, one of Africa’s largest mining projects, generated around $3.6 billion in revenue since 2010. Located 300 km north of Nouakchott, it achieved record gold production of 620,793 ounces (17.6 mt) in 2023, a 15% increase from the previous year. Canadian Kinross Gold Corporation, the mine’s operator, is investing $150 million to boost production capacity and extend the mine’s life until 2034.
Mauritania’s mining sector has significantly contributed to the national economy, with the sector’s GDP share increasing from 18% in 2021 to 24% in 2022. The industry generated about 30% of state revenue and accounted for 76.76% of total exports in 2022. The artisanal mining sector also plays a crucial role, contributing $780 million annually and providing around 145,000 jobs.
Looking ahead, Mauritania aims to achieve its iron ore production target of 45 million mt by 2030, focusing on high-grade ore and developing iron ore pellets in line with global trends toward cleaner steelmaking. The country is also exploring value-added production of ‘green’ steel.
Additionally, Mauritania has significant uranium potential, with over 80 mineral occurrences. Aura Energy’s Tiris Project could produce 907 mt of uranium and vanadium annually, with operations expected to start in 2026. The country also has substantial gypsum reserves, estimated at 1.7 billion mt, and is pursuing ambitious green hydrogen projects, such as the $40 billion Aman project and the Nour project, which could significantly boost Mauritania’s GDP by 2035.
Recent infrastructure investments include a $186.8 million deal with TAKRAF Group to enhance SNIM’s iron ore operations. The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) natural gas project, expected to start production by the end of 2024, will further solidify Mauritania’s role as a major energy producer.
Despite its progress, Mauritania’s mining sector faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, harsh climate conditions, and regulatory hurdles. Addressing these issues is crucial for the sector’s growth and the broader economic transformation.
Mauritania’s mining sector, rich in iron ore, gold, and copper, holds great promise for economic expansion. With ongoing investments and strategic initiatives, the country is well-positioned to overcome its challenges and harness its vast mineral resources for future growth
