By: Energy capital and power

Countries within the MSGBC Basin increasingly explore regional cooperation to develop shared economic and natural resources. In this context, Mauritania and The Gambia strengthen their bilateral ties by signing 14 agreements in June 2025. The accords cover energy, mining, water resources, trade, fisheries, education, youth and livestock.

Building on these agreements, the two countries aim to leverage complementary strengths to pursue practical collaboration: sharing hydrocarbon data and exploration opportunities, developing mineral sectors, managing shared water resources and facilitating trade and economic integration.

Energy

Mauritania becomes a natural gas producer in 2024 with the start of production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field, developed by international oil companies bp and Kosmos Energy on the maritime border with Senegal. The project positions Mauritania as a regional LNG exporter and a key player in the MSGBC Basin. The Gambia, meanwhile, has about 8,500 km² of offshore territory within the MSGBC basin, with geological and seismic data suggesting the presence of significant oil resources.

Cooperation between the two countries has the potential to drive knowledge-sharing on exploration. The two countries could pursue joint mapping and surveying of the MSGBC Basin, enabling better resource assessment and reducing exploration costs. Mauritania’s operational experience in gas development could also support Gambian efforts, while shared data platforms could accelerate basin-wide exploration.

Mining

Mauritania is the second-largest iron ore producer in Africa, with production centered around national mining company SNIM’s operations in Zouérate. Beyond iron ore, Mauritania also produces gold and uranium, making mining a major contributor to its economy. The Gambia, by contrast, has untapped mineral deposits including heavy mineral sands containing titanium, silica sand, tin and kaolinitic clay, but lacks large-scale mining operations.

By leveraging Mauritania’s experience in resource development, regulatory frameworks and environmental standards, The Gambia could accelerate exploration and attract investment into its mineral sector. Joint ventures, training programs and technology transfer initiatives could help The Gambia unlock its potential.

Water Resources

Mauritania and The Gambia both depend on shared water systems, notably the Senegal-Mauritania Aquifer Basin, which extends across four countries in the subregion. This aquifer is critical for agriculture, urban supply and resilience against drought, yet faces challenges from overuse, pollution and climate change. Cooperation in transboundary water management helps both states secure reliable access while preserving ecosystems. Regional frameworks already exist, but closer bilateral collaboration enables more targeted projects, particularly as both countries adapt to climate variability and rising demand for water resources. Opportunities include joint monitoring of groundwater levels, investment in climate-resilient irrigation systems and projects in rainwater harvesting and recharge techniques.

Trade

Stronger trade ties between Mauritania and The Gambia play a central role in advancing economic integration within the MSGBC region. Both countries stand to benefit from cooperation on reducing tariffs, improving customs procedures and harmonizing trade regulations to ease the flow of goods. Infrastructure improvements such as road corridors and port connectivity also facilitate greater cross-border commerce. By aligning policies and strengthening logistics links, Mauritania and The Gambia reduce transaction costs and expand access to regional and international markets. Additionally, business events such as the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition help identify specific economic opportunities and synergies between both countries.