The President of Chad, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, reaffirmed his commitment to developing the country’s horse racing sector during the Grand Prix de la République held at the Afrouk racetrack, on the outskirts of N’Djamena. Thousands of enthusiasts, breeders, and riders gathered to witness the event as the Head of State announced an exceptional financial contribution to support this culturally and historically significant sport.

Before the races began, the President observed the competitions before unveiling a 50 million CFA francs fund earmarked for enhancing the national horse racing industry and improving the local equine breed. The announcement was delivered by the State Minister and Director of the Presidential Cabinet, Aziz Mahamat Saleh, who emphasized the government’s dedication to sustaining and modernizing the sector.

“The President is fully committed to advancing horse racing in Chad and strengthening the national equine breed,” he declared to the assembled crowd.

The sector’s stakeholders, including the Association of Breeders and Horse Racing Actors of Chad (AEARCT), welcomed the government’s initiative. Founded in 1963 in Fort-Lamy (now N’Djamena), the association holds the distinction of being the country’s first public utility organization. Its President, Idriss Ahmed Idriss, highlighted AEARCT’s role as a unifying force in Chadian society, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds for over six decades.

He also reflected on the historical ties between Chad’s leadership and the equestrian world, noting how past presidents like Ngarta Tombalbaye frequently organized races during state visits, while Idriss Deby Itno showed a keen interest in televised competitions. The association chief praised the ongoing construction of the new Afrouk racetrack, named in honor of Hassan Guihini Khamis, as a landmark achievement for the sport in Chad. Previously, races were held at the old N’Djamena racetrack or temporary venues.

“You are the first Head of State to inaugurate an infrastructure that will host equestrian sports, horse races, the AEARCT administration, and even an equestrian village,” he told the President, as the crowd erupted in applause.

Idriss Ahmed Idriss also raised concerns about the need for sustainable funding mechanisms, suggesting the adoption of pari-mutuel systems used in other countries to bolster the industry. Beyond its sporting significance, horse racing remains a vital cultural and social tradition in Chad, deeply embedded in local customs, livestock breeding, and community life.

The President’s presence at the Afrouk racetrack and the announcement of new financial support are seen as a clear endorsement of the sector’s modernization and professionalization, marking a new chapter for Chadian horse racing.