The European Union supports the health sector as one of the priorities of its partnership with Mauritania.
The EU’s support is aligned with the Mauritanian government’s health priorities. The Health Sector Support Programme (PASS), through its successive phases, is a flagship initiative in the sector. It aims to strengthen the implementation of the National Health Policy and its National Health Development Plan (PNDS), with the overarching goal of improving universal and equitable access to effective health services.
Since 2017, significant progress has been made in governance, including the establishment of standards for health facilities, the training of health personnel in financial management, the strengthening of human resources at all levels, improved access to medicines, and medical supplies through support to the central pharmaceutical purchasing agency, and assistance in validating the national pharmaceutical policy. Rehabilitation, construction and equipment of health centres and posts have also contributed to improving healthcare service delivery.
To ensure that everyone can access the health services they need –wherever and whenever they need them– without facing financial hardship, the EU has supported Mauritania in establishing and consolidating a universal health coverage system. A major milestone was the creation of the Caisse Nationale de Solidarité en Santé (CNASS) in 2022, which benefits the informal sector—representing 70% of workforce—who previously had no access to health insurance, enabling them to obtain affordable healthcare services. Membership in the CNASS continues to grow steadily accros the country.
The actions supported by the EU aim to improve both the accessibility and quality of health services at all levels (health centres, health posts, and hospitals) through skilled human resources, effective management, and the reliable availability of medicines, equipment, and essential medical supplies in all health facilities.
To build a more efficient and responsive health system, the EU is also supporting the digitalisation of the sector. This includes better sharing of health information and strengthened management of human resources, patient data, medicines, and other key resources. Mauritania, with the support of PASS, has developed a national strategy and action plan for the digitalisation of the health sector, contributing to better quality healthcare services for all.
Union européenne/Michele Cattani/2025
PASS project is implemented by: Ministry of Health and the Belgian Development Agency (Enabel)
See also this video showcasing the EU’s support to the health sector, with the CNASS as a key example.