The President of Chad, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, reaffirmed on Sunday his unwavering commitment to advancing the nation’s horse racing industry during the Grand Prix de la République held at the Afrouk racetrack near N’Djamena. The event drew thousands of enthusiasts, breeders, and riders, all gathered to celebrate this cherished sporting and cultural heritage.
In a symbolic show of support, the Head of State attended the races before unveiling a landmark financial package aimed at revitalizing the sector. Speaking on his behalf, the Minister of State and Director of the Presidential Cabinet, Aziz Mahamat Saleh, announced an exceptional 50 million CFA franc contribution to bolster horse racing competitions and enhance the quality of Chad’s equine breeds.
“The President is fully committed to advancing horse racing in Chad and improving the nation’s equine breeds,” the minister declared to the cheering crowd.
The initiative was warmly welcomed by the Chadian Association of Horse Racing Breeders and Stakeholders (AEARCT), a historic organization founded in 1963 in Fort-Lamy—now N’Djamena—and recognized as the country’s first public utility association. Addressing the crowd, AEARCT President Idriss Ahmed Idriss emphasized the association’s role as a unifying force in Chadian society, bringing together individuals from all walks of life over the past six decades.
He also highlighted the deep historical ties between the nation’s leadership and the equestrian world, noting how former President Ngarta Tombalbaye frequently hosted horse races during state visits, while President Idriss Deby Itno consistently followed televised competitions. Yet, Idriss reserved his highest praise for the ongoing construction of the new Afrouk racetrack, named in honor of Hassan Guihini Khamis, calling it the most significant investment ever made in Chadian horse sports. Until now, the association’s activities had relied on the old N’Djamena racetrack or temporary venues.
“You are the first Head of State to inaugurate a facility that will host equestrian sports, horse races, the AEARCT’s administrative hub, and even an equestrian village,” Idriss proclaimed to thunderous applause.
In addition to celebrating the new infrastructure, the association’s leader called for sustainable funding mechanisms for the sector, modeled after pari-mutuel systems used in other countries to support horse racing. Beyond its sporting significance, horse breeding remains a vital tradition across Chad, deeply woven into local customs, livestock rearing, and social life.
The President’s attendance and the announcement of financial backing signal a bold step toward modernizing and professionalizing Chad’s equine industry, offering renewed hope for breeders and enthusiasts nationwide.