Mauritania minister warns Nouakchott cleaning firm
Minister Mokhtar Ould Ahmed Bouceif says ARMA's services are below expectations and must improve by December.
Nouakchott's Minister of Interior, Mokhtar Ould Ahmed Bouceif, stated on November 2, 2026, that the cleaning company ARMA is not meeting expectations for the city's cleanliness. He noted persistent waste in many areas, indicating contract failures despite government and partner cleanup campaigns.
The minister explained that the ministry must ensure the capital's cleanliness, either by improving ARMA's performance or finding alternative solutions. He gave ARMA until the end of December to fix issues and ordered preparations for alternative providers to avoid service delays.
Measures include creating a plan for accumulated waste, using all available dumpsites, and assessing the Tifirit landfill. Logistics and equipment from ARMA will be available to Nouakchott's three governors starting November 2 to boost coordination. An evaluation meeting is set for November 8, 2026.
Why it mattersResidents of Nouakchott are directly affected by the poor waste management and the potential for alternative solutions.