The Government of the Canary Islands has launched the 'Tierra Firme' project in Mauritania, Senegal and Gambia, with the aim of offering vocational training to young people in vulnerable situations. This initiative aims to provide alternative employment opportunities at source and reduce irregular migration to Europe.
In Mauritania, 'Tierra Firme' has trained more than 40 people in trades such as masonry and formwork, sectors with high labour demand in the country. The training is provided in collaboration with local centres and private sector companies, following a public-private cooperation model.
Recently, a delegation from the Basque Government, led by the deputy ministers Octavio Caraballo and Francis Candil, visited Mauritania to learn first-hand about the development of the project. During their stay, they met with local authorities and representatives of the Government of the Canary Islands to evaluate possible avenues of collaboration.
The Basque Government has expressed its interest in replicating the 'Tierra Firme' model in the Basque Country, adapting it to the needs of the local labour market. The intention is to train young Africans in sectors in demand in the autonomous community, facilitating their labour integration and contributing to the economic development of both regions.
Tierra Firme' has established itself as an example of effective international cooperation, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Through technical training and the creation of quality employment, the project offers young Africans an opportunity to build a future in their country of origin.
The collaboration between the Canary Islands and the Basque Country in this field strengthens the ties between the two autonomous communities and underlines the commitment to sustainable development and the fight against irregular migration.
Source: Government of the Canary Islands; @canarias2023