The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will provide at least $100-million in financial aid to Mauritania over the next three years, in a move that shows recognition for that country’s efforts to improve political legitimacy.

Aid was frozen in 2008 after a coup took place but the coup leader won an election in July this year and has therefore gained more legitimacy in the eyes of the IMF.

The money, which could be increased when put before the IMF board, has been designated for improving the management of public sector spending, supporting the financial sector and boosting the country's energy sector, Ousmane Kane, Mauritania's finance minister, told reporters.

Reported by Reuters