Mauritania

Mauritania has a rich history of mining, dating back to ancient times when the nomadic tribes mined freely for gold around the river beds. In the early 20th century, the French established the first modern mining operation in Mauritania at Akjout, which produced copper and other minerals. During the colonial period, mining activities expanded rapidly, and numerous companies started prospecting for various minerals across the country.

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Starting in the 1950s, iron ore became the primary mineral mined in Mauritania, and the country has now become one of the top 10 iron ore producers in the world. The first major iron ore mine, Guelb El Rhein, was established in the mid-1960s, with additional mines following in subsequent decades. The mining industry has played a significant role in the Mauritanian economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the country's GDP. Despite fluctuations in international commodity prices, the mining industry remains a vital component of the Mauritanian economy.