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Promoting SDG ownership at the local level
Objective
Conduct voluntary local reviews (VLRs) to support the VNR process and promote SDG localization.
Overview
The preparation of the 2024 VNR in Mauritania included two VLRs for the Nouakchott and Hodh Chargui regions. The VLRs strengthened SDG ownership and encouraged dialogue between local authorities and the central Government, and other stakeholders such as civil society, the private sector and service providers. Outcomes included identifying obstacles to SDG implementation at the local level, lessons learned, and ways to improve the efficiency of municipal management based on the local context and needs.
The Nouakchott Regional Council led the review process, involving representatives from the region, Nouakchott municipalities, civil society and the private sector. The VLR reviewed the 17 SDGs and highlighted the Regional Council's programmes to improve local living conditions, especially for the most vulnerable communities. The VLR also identified good practices, such as the Feeding and Greening Nouakchott initiative. Challenges included lack of or weak financial and human resources.
The Hodh Chargui VLR covered 11 SDGs. It highlighted cooperation between local authorities and civil society to eradicate poverty through the provision of food baskets and the distribution of water in unstable areas. The VLR addressed migration as a key challenge. While Mauritania has been successful in managing migration and asylum, the increasing number of refugees places additional burden on host communities, resources and services. The review noted the important role of the international community in providing targeted financial and technical support to refugees and host communities.