Top 10 Biggest Cities in Mauritania by Population
Mauritania, situated in North Africa along the western coast of the continent, is a vast country marked by a fascinating blend of desert landscapes, Atlantic coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Although much of the country is sparsely populated, Mauritania’s urban areas are growing rapidly as people increasingly move from rural to urban settings. The country’s cities are essential centers for trade, government, culture, and economic activity, reflecting both Mauritania’s diverse traditions and its strides toward modernization. Each city, from the bustling capital of Nouakchott to regional hubs and historical mining towns, tells its own story of growth, adaptation, and development.
Here are the top 10 cities in Mauritania by population.
1. Nouakchott
Overview
Nouakchott is the capital and largest city of Mauritania, with a population that exceeds 1 million residents. As the country’s political, economic, and cultural center, Nouakchott is an essential hub for both Mauritania and the surrounding region. Located on the Atlantic coast, the city has grown rapidly since Mauritania gained independence, transforming from a small fishing village to a thriving metropolis.
Historical Development
Nouakchott was chosen as Mauritania’s capital in 1960, when the country gained independence from France. At that time, it was a modest coastal village with little infrastructure. However, its strategic location along the Atlantic made it ideal for development. Nouakchott quickly expanded, attracting people from across the country who were drawn to the new opportunities in the city. As it grew, it became a melting pot of Mauritania’s various ethnic groups and cultures.
Economy and Infrastructure
Nouakchott is Mauritania’s economic powerhouse, with a diverse economy that includes government services, commerce, fishing, and construction. The city is home to the Port de l’Amitié, a key entry point for goods entering the country, which connects Mauritania to global markets. Nouakchott also houses the country’s international airport, which has recently been expanded to accommodate increasing traffic. The city’s infrastructure has seen significant investment in recent years, though rapid population growth has led to challenges in housing, water access, and other services. Nevertheless, Nouakchott remains at the heart of Mauritania’s social and economic activities.
2. Nouadhibou
Overview
Nouadhibou, with a population of around 150,000, is Mauritania’s second-largest city and a significant economic hub. Located on a peninsula in the northwest of the country, Nouadhibou sits close to the border with Western Sahara and is strategically positioned along the Atlantic Ocean. The city is known for its fishing industry, mining exports, and commercial activities, which make it a vital link between Mauritania and other West African economies.
Economic Importance
Nouadhibou’s economy is largely driven by fishing, as the city’s coastal location provides access to rich fishing grounds. The harbor is a bustling site of activity, supporting both local fishermen and commercial fishing companies. Nouadhibou is also an important center for the export of iron ore, one of Mauritania’s most valuable natural resources. The city is connected to the iron mines in Zouerate via the Mauritania Railway, a major transportation link that helps drive the city’s economy.
Port and Free Trade Zone
Nouadhibou is home to the Nouadhibou Free Trade Zone, which was established to attract foreign investment and boost economic activity. This zone has encouraged business development, attracting companies involved in shipping, logistics, and trade. The port in Nouadhibou plays a key role in Mauritania’s exports and imports, making the city a central hub for the country’s trade relations with Europe, North America, and West Africa.
3. Kiffa
Overview
Located in southern Mauritania, Kiffa is the third-largest city in the country with a population of approximately 80,000. It is the capital of the Assaba Region and a key regional hub for commerce, trade, and culture. Known for its crafts and traditional beadwork, Kiffa is an example of a city where Mauritania’s cultural heritage is still actively preserved.
Cultural Significance
Kiffa is renowned for its traditional Kiffa beads, a unique style of decorative beads crafted by local artisans. These beads are carefully made and have gained international attention for their beauty and craftsmanship. The city has a strong sense of cultural identity, with local markets selling handmade crafts, textiles, and food products that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the region.
Agriculture and Trade
Kiffa’s economy is closely linked to agriculture, with the surrounding lands providing fertile ground for crops and livestock grazing. Markets in Kiffa serve as key trading points for rural communities in the Assaba Region, facilitating the sale of agricultural produce, livestock, and other goods. The city’s role as a regional trade center makes it essential to the livelihoods of many in the area.
4. Rosso
Overview
Rosso, with a population of around 60,000, is located in the southwestern part of Mauritania along the Senegal River. It serves as an important border town, connecting Mauritania with neighboring Senegal. Rosso’s economy benefits from its location, as cross-border trade and agriculture drive much of the city’s economic activity.
Border Town Dynamics
As a border town, Rosso plays a crucial role in Mauritania’s relationship with Senegal. The city’s ferry service connects Rosso with the Senegalese town of Richard Toll, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services across the river. This border-crossing point fosters a lively exchange of cultures and creates a dynamic atmosphere in the city.
Agricultural Hub
The fertile lands around the Senegal River make Rosso an important center for agriculture in Mauritania. Local farmers cultivate rice, millet, and vegetables, which provide both food security and economic opportunities for the region. The proximity to the river also supports livestock farming, making agriculture a key pillar of Rosso’s economy. The city’s markets are vibrant places where farmers and traders come together to sell produce and other goods.
5. Kaédi
Overview
Kaédi, with a population of around 55,000, is located along the Senegal River in southern Mauritania. It serves as the capital of the Gorgol Region and is known for its multicultural population. The city’s strategic location and fertile lands make it a hub for agriculture and trade.
Cultural and Ethnic Diversity
Kaédi is notable for its diverse population, which includes communities of Haratin, Fulani, Soninke, and other ethnic groups. This cultural mix contributes to the vibrant life in the city, with traditional music, dance, and crafts playing an important role in local life. The diversity of Kaédi makes it a microcosm of Mauritania’s multicultural heritage.
Economy Based on Agriculture
Like many cities in southern Mauritania, Kaédi’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture. Rice and millet are the primary crops cultivated in the fertile plains along the Senegal River. Kaédi’s markets serve as regional trading centers where farmers sell their produce, providing an economic foundation for the city and supporting the livelihoods of many residents.
6. Zouérat
Overview
Zouérat, with a population of around 50,000, is a city in northern Mauritania and the center of the country’s mining industry. Located near the Sahara Desert, Zouérat is known for its iron ore mines, which are among the largest in Africa. The city’s economy is centered on mining, with a large portion of the population employed in this sector.
Mining City Significance
The discovery of iron ore in the area in the mid-20th century led to Zouérat’s development as a mining city. The Mauritania Railway connects Zouérat to the port city of Nouadhibou, allowing for the transportation of iron ore for export. Mining is the backbone of the city’s economy and provides jobs, infrastructure, and essential services for residents.
Economic Impact of Iron Ore
Zouérat’s iron ore deposits are managed by the state-owned Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière (SNIM), one of Mauritania’s largest employers. Iron ore exports are a critical source of revenue for the country, making Zouérat an economically significant city. The city’s reliance on mining has led to significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, housing, and community facilities.
7. Atar
Overview
Atar, with a population of approximately 40,000, is located near the Adrar Plateau in northern Mauritania. Known for its scenic landscapes and historical sites, Atar serves as a gateway to Mauritania’s UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Adrar Region, including the ancient cities of Chinguetti and Ouadane.
Tourism and Historical Sites
Atar’s location near historic cities like Chinguetti, often called the “City of Libraries,” and Ouadane, a former trading hub, attracts tourists interested in Mauritania’s historical heritage. These ancient sites are renowned for their architecture, manuscripts, and unique desert landscapes. Tourism in Atar supports local businesses, providing jobs and economic activity for the city.
Economy Based on Tourism and Trade
The local economy in Atar is largely based on tourism, with services such as hotels, guides, and craft shops catering to visitors. The city’s markets also serve as centers for trade, with vendors selling traditional crafts, textiles, and other local products. Tourism has become increasingly important to Atar’s economy, especially as more travelers seek experiences in remote, historical locations.
8. Néma
Overview
Néma, with a population of around 35,000, is located in eastern Mauritania and serves as the capital of the Hodh Ech Chargui Region. The city is known as an essential trading hub and a key link between Mauritania and Mali, fostering cross-border exchanges and regional development.
Strategic Location and Cross-Border Trade
Néma’s location near the Mali border makes it an important city for trade and transportation in eastern Mauritania. Goods such as livestock, grains, and textiles move between Mauritania and Mali, supporting economic activity and connecting Néma to other regions.
Economy and Local Commerce
Néma’s economy is rooted in agriculture, with local markets where traders and farmers exchange goods. Livestock farming, particularly of camels and goats, is common, and grains are also produced in the region. These agricultural products form the foundation of Néma’s economy and support the livelihoods of residents.
9. Sélibabi
Overview
Sélibabi, with a population of around 30,000, is situated in southern Mauritania near the Mali border. As the capital of the Guidimaka Region, Sélibabi is a center for agriculture and trade, with a unique blend of Mauritanian and Malian influences in its culture and commerce.
Agriculture and Cross-Border Influence
Sélibabi benefits from fertile lands, which allow for the cultivation of millet, sorghum, and vegetables. The city’s close proximity to Mali encourages cross-border trade and cultural exchange, creating a vibrant atmosphere where Mauritanian and Malian customs intersect.
Economic Activities
The local economy is driven by agriculture and trade. Sélibabi’s markets are lively spaces where vendors sell produce, livestock, and handmade goods. This commerce is essential for the local economy, supporting both urban and rural communities in the Guidimaka Region.
10. Akjoujt
Overview
Akjoujt, with a population of around 25,000, is located in central Mauritania and is known for its copper and gold mining industries. The city’s economy is centered on these mining operations, which provide employment and contribute to Mauritania’s export revenue.
Mining Industry and Development
Copper and gold mining have transformed Akjoujt into a significant economic center. Mining companies operate in the area, extracting minerals that are processed locally and exported. The industry has attracted workers, contributing to the city’s growth and development.
Economy Driven by Mining
Mining is the main economic activity in Akjoujt, with companies extracting copper and gold for export. These resources add significantly to Mauritania’s economy, making Akjoujt an essential city in the country’s mineral resource sector.
