Energy and infrastructure company Sahara Group has officially commenced bunkering operations in Mauritania after securing a 2026 licence from the Government of Mauritania, marking a significant expansion of its maritime footprint along West Africa’s Atlantic coast.
The move positions Mauritania more firmly within regional shipping and logistics networks, with expectations that improved fuel availability will enhance port competitiveness and attract increased vessel traffic along key international trade routes.
Offshore operations begin with bunker tanker deployment
As part of the rollout, Sahara has deployed the FT NERVI, a 7,600 deadweight tonne bunker tanker stationed offshore Nouadhibou, to begin immediate supply operations.
The vessel is supplying ISO 8217:2022 Marine Gasoil and 0.50 per cent Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) to international and regional ships operating within Mauritanian waters, aligning with global marine fuel standards used by the shipping industry to reduce emissions and ensure compliance.
The company says the introduction of these fuel grades is intended to support more efficient vessel operations while improving turnaround times at regional ports.
“A significant step for Africa’s maritime economy”
Executive Director of Sahara Group, Wale Ajibade, described the development as a milestone not only for Mauritania but for the wider African maritime economy.
“This development is significant for Mauritania and for Africa’s maritime economy. By establishing operational bunkering capacity in Mauritania, we are supporting port competitiveness, improving vessel turnaround efficiency, and strengthening the infrastructure that enables regional and international trade,” Ajibade said.
His comments underline the company’s broader strategy of expanding integrated midstream infrastructure and maritime trading capabilities across the continent.
Strengthening West African shipping routes and logistics
Sahara Group said the new operation is expected to enhance Mauritania’s role as a reliable service hub for shipping activity along the West and North-West African corridor. The presence of local bunkering capacity is also expected to reduce reliance on distant fuel supply points, potentially improving logistics efficiency for vessels operating along Atlantic trade lanes.
The company added that its entry into the market would deepen connectivity within Africa’s maritime supply chains by making compliant marine fuels more accessible closer to major shipping routes.
Cleaner fuels and regulatory alignment
Ajibade also highlighted that the supply of 0.50 per cent sulphur fuel supports the shipping industry’s gradual shift toward lower-emission operations in line with International Maritime Organization sulphur regulations.
According to Sahara, providing ISO-compliant fuels reflects its commitment to international safety, quality, and environmental standards in marine energy distribution.
Wider African expansion strategy
Beyond Mauritania, the company noted that the new venture builds on its growing presence in Africa’s maritime and midstream sectors, including past deployment of LPG vessels aimed at improving energy access and supporting cleaner cooking initiatives in several markets.
Sahara Group said its operations across the continent have helped strengthen coastal supply chains, improve marine logistics systems, and reinforce its position in safe and reliable energy transportation.
The Mauritania launch, it added, forms part of a longer-term strategy to expand Africa’s participation in global trade by developing infrastructure that supports both economic growth and environmental responsibility.