EIB to Consider Investments in Mauritania’s Railways

The EIB has launched an evaluation of a railway expansion project connecting Zouérat and Nouadhibou, as Mauritania aims to boost iron ore exports and improve logistics. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The bank is considering credit financing of €113 million. The total project cost amounts to €461 million, including the purchase of new locomotives and freight wagons.

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Network Expansion to Strengthen Mauritania’s Export Potential

The project involves laying additional tracks and extending the route to new mining sites. It also includes acquiring equipment for regular infrastructure maintenance.

State-owned mining company SNIM is implementing the project. The new line is expected to keep freight transport on railways and prevent its shift to roadways.

According to government estimates, improving logistics will enhance the country’s position in the global raw materials market. The project will also create jobs and reinforce the region’s transport resilience.

Mauritania and China’s Growing Investment in African Logistics

Interest in African rail projects is increasing, especially from Chinese firms. In March, CCECC proposed investing $1.4 billion to modernize the TAZARA line linking Zambia’s copper mines to Tanzania’s port of Dar es Salaam.

In January, CCECC secured funding from the China Development Bank for constructing the Kaduna–Kano line in Nigeria. In February, China Railway subsidiaries signed an agreement to build a railway linking Burundi’s nickel deposit with Tanzania’s rail network and Dar es Salaam port.

These initiatives highlight the intensifying competition for access to natural resources. By reinforcing its infrastructure, Mauritania seeks to maintain its competitiveness amid rising international investment across the African continent.

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