Mauritania is advancing its national digital transformation strategy with the launch of its electronic visa (e-visa) system, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad.
Starting from January 5, all passengers requiring a visa to enter Mauritania must obtain their electronic visa before boarding their flight. Applications are to be submitted via the official website of the National Agency for the Population Register and Secure Titles (ANRPTS).
The new policy applies to nationals of all countries except those with which Mauritania has reciprocal visa-waiver agreements. There are 18 such countries, including ten African nations: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Niger, Ivory Coast, and Chad. However, the visa exemption for some countries, including Morocco, only applies to diplomatic and service passports.
This move aligns with the broader goals of the “National Digital Transformation Agenda 2022-2025,” which aims to leverage digital technology for Mauritania’s socio-economic development.
The introduction of the e-visa is expected to ease the entry process for foreign visitors and is seen as a key component of the government’s strategy to boost tourism. This effort is part of the national tourism strategy for 2018-2030, which targets a significant increase in tourism revenue.
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that the Mauritanian tourism sector’s GDP was projected to reach 1.8 billion ouguiyas ($45.05 million) in 2021, with an expected growth to 2.2 billion ouguiyas by 2025.
The IMF highlights the sector’s strong potential, urging the development of offerings that meet both national and international tourists’ needs, alongside improvements in territorial security.
These initiatives underscore the Kenyan Communications Authority’s commitment to fostering a robust and innovative ICT ecosystem, paving the way for sustained digital transformation in the country.
