Mauritania
| Full country name | Islamic Republic of Mauritania | Republic of Ireland |
| Population | 3.2 million | 4.6 million |
| Area | 1,030,700 sq km | 70,273 sq km |
| Capital City | Nouakchott | Dublin |
| Language | Arabix (Hassaniya), French, Pulaar, Wolof | English, Irish |
| Religion | Islam | Catholocism, Christianity |
| Infant Mortality | 61.94 / 1000 | 3.89 / 1000 |
| Literacy Rates | 51.2% | 99% |
| Population below the poverty line | 40% | 4.2% |
The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is a land of sand dunes, nomads and colourful dress. It is a cultural bridge between Arab North Africa and Black West Africa where many people are nomadic herders. It gained its independence from France in 1960.
Although one of Africa’s newest oil producers, Mauritania is one of the poorest countries in the world. Drought and food shortages are common. The country also has one of the lowest literacy rates at 51.2%.
World Vision works with the communities of Guerrou and M’Bagne - to find out how both communities progressed and dealt with emerging drought in 2011 click here.
Le Capitaine
Kiffa is a remote town in Eastern Mauritania, 60kms away from Guerrou ADP and home to an extraordinary man called ‘Le Capitaine’.
Over 60 years old, ‘Le Capitaine’ (an Imam whose real name is Ahmedou N’Diay), is one of the most inspiring people in the region. Well respected and fearless in his commitment to the importance of promoting the health and wellbeing of children, he spearheaded a movement known as ‘Reseau de la petite enfance de Kiffa’ or the ‘Early Childhood Development Network, Kiffa’. The goal of this organisation is to promote child protection and rights starting with birth certificates for all children and advocating the importance of education – especially for girls. This group also has a network of dedicated community volunteers across small villages who are responsible for tracking and reporting child protection violations.
Despite being 60kms away from Guerrou ADP, Le Capitaine works closely with World Vision to champion this cause in the area. He rallies the local community behind the cause of child rights, reminding them about their role in the development of their own community. He is also a skilled youth leader, motivating the young people in Kiffa, Guerrou and beyond to play a more active part in their villages and towns.
We are glad to have you on board, Le Capitaine!
View World Vision Ireland Mauritanian ADPs in a larger map
