Source : Sahel weather May 2025

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In this month of May 2025, the news in Mauritania revolves around the confirmation of the pending verdict against the former president, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz. The Nouakchott Court of Appeal sentenced him to fifteen years in prison for corruption. The ruling reflects a growing determination to tackle wrongdoing by influential figures, which has polarised public opinion. For some, the trial sends a strong message against impunity. Others feel that it serves purely political interests. This emblematic trial crystallises the tensions between state reform and the settling of scores at the top.

The Court of Appeal is a second-tier court. Those convicted on appeal have no choice but to appeal to the highest court in the land.

Mehtarists and the fight against terrorism: Mauritania strengthens its security doctrine

In terms of security, Mauritania stands out for its proactive policy against terrorism, thanks to the méharistesin part , the nomadic desert troops. Carrying on an ancestral tradition, these soldiers now play a central role in Mauritania's military philosophy. Thanks to their expertise in the field and their agility, Mauritania's anti-terrorist forces are increasing the effectiveness of their operations at a time when the terrorist threat in the Sahel region remains unclear. This commitment testifies to Nouakchott's determination to preserve its internal security by relying on troops that are well adapted to local conditions.

Mauritania continues to apply its tried and tested counter-terrorism doctrine of more than 13 years, based on an integrated approach combining military measures, local development and community dialogue. This model, often cited as an example within the former G5 Sahel, has enabled it to maintain a certain resilience in the face of regional upheaval. Nevertheless, this privileged situation is precarious, as systemic difficulties such as poverty, youth unemployment and migratory flows could erode its achievements. The month of May in Mauritania highlights a country at a crossroads, oscillating between consolidation of the state and bold strategic projects.

In addition to this security policy, the fight against illegal immigration has been stepped up and has become a strategic priority. More than 30,000 migrants have been intercepted since the beginning of the year, and more than 80 smuggling networks have been dismantled, proving that the authorities have stepped up their controls in border areas. This decision, applauded by certain European allies, is intended to strengthen collaboration to stem the flow of migrants to the continent. However, it also raises concerns about respect for immigrants' rights and raises questions about the external dynamics influencing Mauritanian migration policy.

Finally, from a perspective more focused on economic geopolitics, Nouakchott is also striving to exploit its natural resources to increase its influence on the international stage. At a conference in Paris, Mauritania's oil minister highlighted the country's "exceptional geological assets". This message is in line with the energy policy under negotiation, which aims to encourage foreign investment in the development of deep-sea oil resources and green energy sources. The country's relative political stability is a key argument for attracting players in the sector, at a time when the global energy transition is redefining strategic partnerships.