Mauritania Advances Green Hydrogen as AfDB Backs Auction Framework and Investor Readiness

Mauritania is accelerating its emergence as a green hydrogen powerhouse in Africa, with the African Development Bank (AfDB) supporting the country to establish a robust, investor-ready framework for large-scale hydrogen development.

A high-level validation workshop held in Nouakchott on 14–15 April 2026 marks a critical milestone in this transition, bringing together government leaders, technical experts, and key institutions to finalise auction procedures for green hydrogen and its derivatives—a cornerstone for attracting global investment.

The initiative is being delivered under the AfDB-backed Support to Mauritania Green Hydrogen Sector Development Programme, the Bank’s first technical assistance programme dedicated to green hydrogen on the continent.

From Ambition to Bankable Projects

Mauritania has set an ambitious target of producing 12.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2035, positioning itself among Africa’s frontrunners in the race to supply clean energy to global markets.

The AfDB programme, launched in April 2025, is designed to turn that ambition into reality by building the institutional and regulatory foundations needed to unlock private capital.

Key achievements so far include:

• Development of a tailored auction framework for hydrogen and derivative products

• Creation of legal and regulatory structures aligned with international standards

• Preparation of standardised bidding documents to streamline investor participation

• Establishment of a clear implementation roadmap for future auctions

“These elements are essential for transforming strategic vision into bankable, investable projects,” said Wale Shonibare, AfDB Director for Energy Financial Solutions, Policy and Regulation.

“Mauritania is positioning itself as a future leader in green hydrogen development in Africa. Our support is helping to build the systems needed to attract investment, drive industrial growth, and contribute to global decarbonisation.”

Auction Model to Unlock Investment and Industry

At the core of the strategy is a competitive auction mechanism, designed to ensure transparency, efficiency, and investor confidence.

Officials say the model will be used to allocate projects for:

• Green hydrogen production

• Green ammonia manufacturing

• Green steel development

This approach mirrors successful renewable energy procurement models globally, where auctions have significantly reduced costs and accelerated deployment.

Taghiya Abdelrahman, head of Mauritania’s Low Carbon Hydrogen Directorate, described the mechanism as a turning point.

“This auction framework is a critical step toward unlocking our vast renewable energy potential and translating it into sustainable industrial growth, job creation, and long-term economic value,” she said.

Building Capacity for a New Energy Economy

Ahead of the validation workshop, the AfDB conducted intensive capacity-building sessions to strengthen the readiness of Mauritanian institutions.

Training focused on three strategic areas:

• Auction design and competitive procurement structures

• Infrastructure planning, including hydrogen hubs and integrated energy systems

• Financial structuring, with emphasis on risk allocation and project bankability

These sessions build on earlier training programmes conducted in July and November 2025, ensuring continuity in institutional development.

Whole-of-Government Approach Signals Strong Commitment

The workshop brought together more than 25 senior representatives from across the hydrogen value chain, including key ministries and state-owned enterprises such as:

• Ministry of Energy and Petroleum

• Ministry of Environment

• Ministry responsible for State Domains

• Ministry of Ports

• Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière

• Société Mauritanienne des Hydrocarbures

This broad participation reflects a coordinated national strategy, critical for developing a complex, cross-sectoral industry like green hydrogen.

Freda Opoku, AfDB Project Task Manager, highlighted the importance of this alignment.

“By combining strong auction design with targeted capacity building, we are ensuring that Mauritania’s institutions can engage effectively with investors and deliver scalable, investment-ready projects,” she said.

Strategic Positioning in a Global Clean Energy Market

Mauritania’s vast solar and wind resources, combined with its geographic proximity to European markets, give it a strong competitive advantage in green hydrogen production.

As global demand for clean fuels rises—particularly in heavy industry, shipping, and aviation—the country is positioning itself as a frontier supplier of low-carbon energy.

Its membership in the Africa Green Hydrogen Alliance, alongside countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, and South Africa, further reinforces its strategic ambitions.

Next Steps: From Framework to Execution

Feedback from the validation workshop will now be incorporated into the final auction design and supporting documentation, paving the way for the operational launch of Mauritania’s hydrogen procurement strategy.

Once implemented, the framework is expected to catalyse large-scale private investment, enabling the development of integrated hydrogen projects and associated infrastructure.

A New Energy Frontier for Africa

As the global energy transition accelerates, Mauritania’s progress signals a broader shift across Africa—from resource extraction to value-added, low-carbon industrial development.

With strong institutional backing, international partnerships, and a clear roadmap, the country is positioning itself not just as a participant—but as a potential leader—in the global green hydrogen economy.