Female Entrepreneurship in Mauritania: Obstacles and Barriers

Abstract

Mauritania, a country strategically located between sub-Saharan Africa and the Maghreb, possesses significant economic potential thanks to key sectors such as agriculture, fishing, mining resources (iron, gold), and renewable energy. Despite these assets, the Mauritanian economy continues to face structural challenges that hinder its development. Among these challenges is the limited access of Mauritanians to entrepreneurship, particularly for women.

Female entrepreneurship in Mauritania still faces numerous obstacles that limit its development. This research aims to analyze the specific barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, focusing on sociocultural, financial, administrative, and commercial dimensions. To achieve this, a mixed-methods approach was adopted: semi-structured interviews were conducted with Mauritanian women entrepreneurs, complemented by a quantitative survey using a questionnaire.

The results show that the main barriers are linked to limited access to financing, gender stereotypes, the complexity of administrative procedures, and difficulties accessing markets. In conclusion, the study recommends the implementation of inclusive public policies aimed at facilitating access to funding, simplifying administrative procedures, and strengthening women's capacities through targeted training and support.

JEL Classification: J16, L26, O55.

Paper Type: Empirical Research.