REDSO/WCA project assistance completion report for private sector initiatives project (625-0970)

The Mauritania component focused on strengthening the capability of the General Confederation of Employers (CGEM) to support small and medium sized enterprises. With project assistance, the CGEM: (1) conducted seminars and workshops to upgrade the managerial and technical skills of local entrepreneurs, and provided courses through its new English for Business Professionals unit, which was also supported by the Peace Corps; (2) developed an in-house capability to provide up-to-date information pertinent to new business creation, and provided existing businesses with technical advice on potential joint venture partners, sources of investment and credit, government regulations, and import/export regulations; and (3) supported a market study of privately financed housing projects, which provided the government, local banks, and potential private investors with a review of the strengths and weaknesses of public sector-sponsored housing construction in Nouakchott. Due to absence of project reviews or evaluations, the PACR does not identify any lessons learned.