Senegal and Mauritania are stepping up their maritime security efforts with an enhanced operational partnership to address rising regional challenges. The two neighboring countries recently carried out their second joint maritime patrol, known as “MUSTARAKA,” on February 7–8, 2025, along the maritime border they share in the Atlantic Ocean.
According to the Senegalese Navy, the aim of these joint operations is to monitor and combat a range of maritime security threats affecting both nations’ waters. The “MUSTARAKA” patrols cover the entire length of the maritime boundary, spanning from the northern coast of Senegal to the southern waters of Mauritania. This strategic initiative will improve coordination between the two navies, ensuring greater surveillance and protection of the shared maritime space.
This joint exercise comes at a critical time, as West African waters face growing challenges related to illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and piracy. These threats have had serious economic and environmental impacts on the region, with illegal fishing alone costing West African countries millions of dollars in lost revenue annually. Furthermore, piracy continues to disrupt shipping lanes and pose a significant risk to vessels transiting through the Gulf of Guinea, one of the world’s most piracy-prone regions.
The success of the second edition of the “MUSTARAKA” patrol underscores the determination of both Senegal and Mauritania to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against these pervasive maritime threats. The increased collaboration aims not only to improve security but also to ensure sustainable management of marine resources in the region, benefiting both nations economically and strategically.
As Senegal and Mauritania intensify their efforts to bolster maritime security, the “MUSTARAKA” operation serves as a key example of regional cooperation in the face of growing maritime challenges. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to working together and enhancing their operational capabilities to safeguard the shared resources and territorial integrity of their waters.
