FIVE-YEAR EQUINE WELFARE INITIATIVE ANNOUNCED TO IMPROVE CONDITIONS FOR WORKING HORSES IN GIZA, EGYPT
Egyptian Equestrian Federation, Longines Global Champions Tour and partners commit to long-term programme supported by independent oversight.
A five-year initiative aimed at improving the welfare of working horses and other animals in the Pyramids area and wider Giza region has been announced by the Egyptian Equestrian Federation (EEF), Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) and their partners.
“The programme brings together the EEF, LGCT, the General Organization for Veterinary Services (GOVS), the Egyptian government, Orascom Pyramids and international equine welfare charity Brooke, with independent oversight to support its implementation.
Building on existing measures brought in by the EEF and its partners, including registration, microchipping, vaccinations and veterinary examinations, the programme will focus on sustained improvements in animal health, care and working conditions.
It will initially focus on approximately 700 horses, with a second phase intended to extend support to approximately 2,000. A detailed roadmap is being developed, with priorities including:
Improving access to feed, water, veterinary treatment and essential medication
Delivering education and training for horse owners and those responsible for the daily care of working animals
Establishing ongoing welfare monitoring and clear expectations for responsible horse ownership
Developing a dedicated funding mechanism to support long-term improvements, with contributions from participating organisations and opportunities for riders, owners, sponsors and members of the public to contribute
Jenny Ellis, Europe Representative of the International Grooms Association (IGA), has been appointed as an independent representative to support oversight of the programme. Drawing on her experience of equine welfare work in Cairo, she will help ensure that the initiative remains focused on practical improvements and measurable outcomes.
QUOTE – Dr. ISMAIL SHAKER, PRESIDENT, EGYPTIAN EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION
“This initiative marks an important step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of working horses in Giza. By bringing together the relevant authorities, veterinary professionals, welfare organisations and the international equestrian community, we have a great opportunity to build on the progress already made and establish a coordinated, long-term approach that delivers meaningful improvements for these animals.”
QUOTE – JAN TOPS, FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR
“Bringing international showjumping to Cairo provides an opportunity to make a positive contribution beyond the competition itself. Horse welfare is fundamental to our sport, and we are committed to supporting the Egyptian Equestrian Federation and its partners in developing a sustainable programme that improves the lives of working horses in the area. We know that lasting change takes time, and we want to play a constructive role in that process.”
QUOTE – JENNY ELLIS, EUROPE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE INTERNATIONAL GROOMS ASSOCIATION (IGA)
“Meaningful improvements in equine welfare require more than short-term interventions. They rely on consistent care, education, accountability and a clear understanding of the challenges facing working horses and their owners. As someone who has worked extensively on equine welfare issues in Cairo, I welcome the opportunity to contribute to a programme that brings together the relevant expertise and resources, with a focus on delivering practical, measurable improvements over time.”
As an immediate practical step, unused feed from LGCT partner Red Mills, alongside unused hay from the Cairo event, has been made available for distribution to working horses through the EEF. Grooms attending the event have also offered unused equipment and veterinary supplies, subject to appropriate checks and distribution arrangements.
The EEF and LGCT have pledged to contribute financially to the initiative, with a dedicated donation mechanism also planned to enable wider support from the equestrian community and public.
Further details of the programme's governance, funding arrangements and phased implementation roadmap will be announced as these are finalised.
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About the Egyptian Equestrian Federation
The Egyptian Equestrian Federation (EEF) is the national governing body responsible for the development, promotion and regulation of equestrian sport in Egypt. Dedicated to advancing equestrian excellence at both national and international levels, the Federation supports athletes, officials and the wider equestrian community across a range of disciplines, including show jumping.
Working in collaboration with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), government authorities and international sporting organisations, the Egyptian Equestrian Federation is committed to promoting high standards of competition, horse welfare and responsible horsemanship. Through the development of sporting programmes, international partnerships and world-class events, the Federation continues to strengthen Egypt's position on the global equestrian stage while inspiring future generations of riders.
About Global Champions
Founded in 2006 by Olympic show jumper Jan Tops, Global Champions is a world-leading equestrian sports organisation dedicated to elevating show jumping to new heights. Through its flagship competitions, the Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) and GCL team series, Global Champions brings together the world's best riders and horses to compete at iconic destinations across the globe.
Combining elite sporting excellence with innovation, entertainment and world-class hospitality, Global Champions has transformed the landscape of international show jumping, creating a global platform that connects athletes, fans, partners and destinations. With a commitment to sporting excellence, horse welfare and the continued growth of equestrian sport, Global Champions continues to push boundaries and shape the future of show jumping.
About Jenny Ellis
Jenny Ellis is an experienced equine welfare advocate and the Europe Representative of the International Grooms Association (IGA). With extensive experience supporting equine welfare initiatives in Cairo, she has a strong understanding of the challenges facing working horses and the importance of practical, sustainable solutions.
Passionate about improving standards of horse care, Jenny advocates for education, responsible horsemanship and collaboration between local communities, veterinary professionals and welfare organisations. As an independent representative supporting the five-year equine welfare initiative in Giza, she will help provide oversight, promote accountability and support the delivery of meaningful, measurable improvements to the lives of working horses in the region.
About Brooke
Brooke is an international animal welfare charity dedicated to improving the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules, and the communities that depend on them. Founded in Cairo in 1934 by Dorothy Brooke, the organisation has a long-standing history of protecting working equines and promoting sustainable improvements in animal welfare across the world.
Working alongside local communities, veterinary professionals, governments and partner organisations, Brooke focuses on improving access to veterinary care, strengthening animal welfare standards and providing education and training for owners and handlers. With deep roots in Egypt and decades of experience supporting working animals, Brooke continues to advocate for lasting, practical change to ensure better welfare and healthier lives for working equines.