This paper covers the development of irrigated agriculture in Mauritania. Mauritania's food situation as regards cereals is precarious, as was highlighted dramatically during the drought years of the 1970's. Minimum overall needs are estimated at 180,000 tons, against an average output in recent years of 30,000 tons. In these circumstances, the country has no option other than to rely on the international community, which provided food aid grants of 95,000 tons in 1972, 35,000 tons in 1975, 50,000 tons in 1977 and 57,000 tons in 1973. The problems are aggravated by the rural exodus.