Nouakchott hosts the 1st Annual Energy Forum: Young graduates at the heart of Mauritania's gas future

On 22 April 2024, the Palais des Congrès in Nouakchott will host the first Annual Energy Forum, organised by the Association des Jeunes Diplômés en Hydrocarbures (AJDH). Under the theme "Gas resources in Mauritania: opportunities, challenges and prospects for young graduates", this ground-breaking event is intended to provide a forum for strategic exchanges between players in the sector, public decision-makers and the next generation.

Mauritania, with its large offshore gas deposits, is positioning itself as an emerging player in the African energy landscape. The aim of this forum is to discuss the challenges associated with this windfall, particularly in terms of job creation, technology transfer and sustainable investment. The programme includes plenary lectures, thematic workshops and round tables bringing together international experts, government representatives, oil and gas companies and financial institutions.

Discussions will focus on: the economic opportunities of gas projects, the technical and environmental challenges, the integration of young graduates into the workforce, and public-private partnerships to strengthen local skills.

The AJDH, which is spearheading this initiative, intends to place young graduates at the heart of the debates. "Our aim is to create a bridge between the needs of the sector and the aspirations of the new generations", explains Mohamed Naji Cheibani, a member of the association. With almost 70% of the Mauritanian population under the age of 35, young people are seen as key players in driving inclusive growth and mastering the technologies of tomorrow.

The forum will feature sessions on specialised training and the adaptation of university curricula, entrepreneurship in renewable energies and gas, the expectations of recruiters and the soft skills needed.

The organisers aim to turn this first event into an annual reference platform. The conclusions of the debates will feed into a white paper aimed at public authorities and international partners, with concrete recommendations for: boosting the employability of young people, accelerating electrification and gas development projects, and positioning Mauritania as an energy hub in West Africa.

For the AJDH, this forum is not an end in itself, but the start of an ongoing dialogue between all the stakeholders, and a unique opportunity to work together to shape Mauritania's energy future.