Mauritania Bans Nighttime Driving to Save Fuel

Mauritania has begun enforcing a ban on vehicle movement inside cities during nighttime hours as part of measures to reduce fuel consumption and manage rising energy costs.

The government announced that cars will be prohibited from operating between midnight and 5:00 a.m., with exceptions for motorcycles used in delivery services and emergencies.

Officials stressed that the decision is not a curfew but a targeted step to stabilize fuel supplies and control prices amid growing economic pressure.

A government spokesperson said the world is facing an unprecedented economic crisis, with sharp increases in oil prices directly impacting the national economy, leading to slower growth and higher inflation.

Authorities added that recent fiscal policies, including spending controls and improved resource management, have helped create financial flexibility to address the impact of these conditions.

The move is part of broader efforts to support households and protect national resources during ongoing global economic challenges.