81319984-Enhancing Environmental and Social Governance Capacities in Mauritania for Green Hydrogen Mega-Projects

Mauritania has exceptional renewable energy resources and seeks to position itself as a hub for green hydrogen production. Yet, the country currently lacks the political, legal, institutional, and technical framework to manage large-scale investments in this sector and to ensure that the local population benefits from its development. This technical cooperation module, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by GIZ, aims to create the conditions for an ecologically and socially sustainable green hydrogen economy in Mauritania. The project runs from December 2024 to November 2027, with a budget of up to EUR 5 million. Overall Objective The module seeks to improve the enabling framework for the green hydrogen sector by enhancing governance capacities, supporting human capital and private sector development, and ensuring environmental and social safeguards. Key Areas of Intervention 1. Regulatory and institutional strengthening - Support to ministries and inter-ministerial structures in implementing the national hydrogen roadmap, developing laws, standards, and governance instruments, and improving coordination with international partners. 2. Human capital and local private sector development - Establishment of training models aligned with hydrogen sector needs, support to vocational institutions and SMEs, and promotion of inclusive economic participation, especially for women and youth. 3. Environmental and social integration - Strengthening the capacity of the Ministry of Environment and other actors to conduct environmental and social assessments, engage local communities, and develop benefit-sharing mechanisms. Strategic Alignment The module contributes to Mauritania's National Roadmap for the Development of a Low-Carbon Hydrogen Industry and supports the Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy (SCAPP 2016-2030). It also aligns with the Agenda 2030 and directly supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including poverty reduction (SDG 1), education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), clean energy (SDG 7), decent work (SDG 8), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and climate action (SDG 13). Target Groups Public institutions (Ministries of Energy, Economy, Environment, and Vocational Training), vocational schools, universities, the Chamber of Commerce, local enterprises, teachers, students, workers, and indirectly the wider population in regions affected by hydrogen projects. Implementation Approach The project applies a comprehensive capacity development strategy, combining advisory services, organizational support, training, policy dialogue, and multi-stakeholder partnerships. Cooperation with other donor initiatives (EU, World Bank, AfDB, AFD) ensures strong synergies, especially in vocational training, private sector development, and infrastructure support. Expected Results The project is expected to contribute to: - A stronger and more coherent regulatory and institutional framework for the hydrogen sector. - Improved skills and employment opportunities for local workers and businesses, with particular benefits for women and youth. - Enhanced environmental and social governance to ensure sustainable development and community participation. - Increased transparency, inclusiveness, and benefit-sharing from hydrogen investments. By strengthening governance, human capital, and sustainability measures, the project will help Mauritania harness its renewable energy potential to become a competitive and responsible green hydrogen producer, while fostering inclusive economic growth and environmental protection.