Mauritania is in Northwest Africa, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vast desert landscapes. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, it is a nation of contrasts, from its bustling capital city to the expansive Sahara Desert. Read more about Mauritania.
Mauritania Trivia Quiz Questions
- Which major river flows through Mauritania?
Nile
Senegal
Congo - When did Mauritania gain independence from France?
1960
1958
1962 - Mauritania is part of which major desert trading route?
Silk Road
Trans-Saharan
Spice Route - What is Mauritania’s national bird?
Golden Eagle
Flamingo
Sandgrouse - What is a unique feature of Mauritania’s train transport?
World’s longest train
Underwater train route
Solar-powered trains - What is a popular sport in Mauritania?
Soccer
Cricket
Basketball - What is a traditional Mauritanian dish?
Couscous
Tagine
Thieboudienne - In Mauritania, what is a “Moor”?
A geographical feature
A tribal group
A type of currency - Mauritania was the last country to abolish what in 1981?
Monarchy
Slavery
Colonialism - What is the currency of Mauritania?
Dinar
Ouguiya
Franc - What is Mauritania’s largest export?
Oil
Fish
Iron Ore - What color predominantly features in Mauritania’s flag?
Green
Red
Blue - What type of government does Mauritania have?
Monarchy
Republic
Dictatorship - Which ocean borders Mauritania?
Indian
Atlantic
Pacific - What is the name of Mauritania’s famous ancient library city?
Timbuktu
Chinguetti
Alexandria - What desert covers much of Mauritania?
Kalahari
Sahara
Gobi - Mauritania’s economy primarily depends on what sector?
Agriculture
Mining
Tourism - What is the capital of Mauritania?
Nouakchott
Dakar
Bamako - Mauritania shares a border with how many countries?
2
4
6 - What is the traditional Mauritanian tea called?
Chai
Ataya
Matcha - What is the official language of Mauritania?
French
Arabic
English - Mauritania is famous for having a city made entirely of what?
Wood
Stone
Iron - Which animal is a national symbol of Mauritania?
Camel
Lion
Elephant - What is the dominant religion in Mauritania?
Christianity
Islam
Hinduism
The Mauritania trivia quiz answers are at the end of the page.
More About Mauritania
Geography
Mauritania is situated in Northwest Africa, bordered by Western Sahara to the north, Algeria to the northeast, Mali to the east and southeast, and Senegal to the southwest. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the west. The country features diverse landscapes, including the Sahara Desert, which covers much of its territory, coastal plains and the Senegal River valley.
Demographics
Mauritania has a population of approximately 4.5 million. The population density is low due to the extensive desert regions. The main ethnic groups include Moors (of Arab-Berber descent) and Sub-Saharan African ethnic groups such as the Wolof, Soninke, and Fulani. Arabic is the official language, and French is widely used in education and government. Islam is the dominant religion practised by nearly the entire population.
History
Mauritania’s rich history dates back to ancient times when it was part of the Ghana Empire. It later became an important centre for Islamic scholarship and trade. In the 19th century, France colonised Mauritania which remained under French control until gaining independence in 1960. Since independence, Mauritania has experienced periods of political instability, including coups and military rule.
Government and Politics
Mauritania is an Islamic republic with a semi-presidential system of government. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The country has a multi-party system, though political power has often been concentrated among a few parties. Recent elections have been characterised by efforts to increase democratic governance and stability.
Economy
The economy of Mauritania is based mainly on agriculture, mining, and fishing. Key industries include iron ore mining, a significant export, and oil and gas production. Mauritania faces economic challenges despite its natural resources, with a GDP reflecting growth and the need for development. Efforts are being made to diversify the economy and improve infrastructure.
Culture
Mauritanian culture blends Arab and African influences, reflecting the country’s diverse population. Traditional music, poetry, and dance are integral parts of cultural expression. Festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha and local events like the Festival of the Cities are widely celebrated. Mauritanian cuisine features staples like couscous, rice, and fish, often flavoured with local spices.
Education and Health
The education system in Mauritania includes primary, secondary, and higher education, with efforts underway to improve literacy rates and educational access. However, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas. The healthcare system faces similar challenges, with a focus on improving medical services and addressing health issues such as malaria and malnutrition.
Infrastructure
Mauritania’s infrastructure includes a network of roads, railways, and ports that facilitate transportation and trade. The Nouadhibou-Nouakchott railway is significant for the iron ore industry. With increasing internet and mobile phone coverage, communication networks are expanding, although access remains limited in some regions.
Environmental Issues
Environmental concerns in Mauritania include desertification, deforestation, and water scarcity. The expansion of the Sahara Desert poses significant challenges to agriculture and livelihoods. Conservation efforts are in place to protect endangered species and manage natural resources sustainably.
Tourism
Tourism in Mauritania is centred around its natural beauty and historical sites. The ancient trading city of Chinguetti, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Banc d’Arguin National Park, known for its diverse birdlife, are popular attractions. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions, and to be mindful of the country’s travel advisories.
Mauritania Trivia Quiz Answers
- Senegal
- 1960
- Trans-Saharan
- Sandgrouse
- World’s longest train
- Soccer
- Thieboudienne
- A tribal group
- Slavery
- Ouguiya
- Iron Ore
- Green
- Republic
- Atlantic
- Chinguetti
- Sahara
- Mining
- Nouakchott
- 4
- Ataya
- Arabic
- Stone
- Camel
- Islam