Mauritania Denies Inviting Mercenaries From Russia

Mauritanian President, Mohamed Ghazouani says his government has no plans to invite mercenaries from Russia’s Wagner group to help in the fight against Islamist insurgents.

Report says countries in the Sahel region, including Mauritania’s neighbour Mali, are using fighters from the shadowy private military company to fight a Jihadist insurgency that has left thousands dead.

“It’s simply not the case… we are a sovereign country and will remain so,” Mr. Ghazouani said

He also denied being approached by the Wagner group but said he would not judge neighbouring countries with ties to the group.

“We hope that these partnerships are effective and that if the aims are achieved that it is done with respect to human rights,” he said.

BBC/Christopher Ojilere