Market Analysis: The African Horse Industry
Africa’s relationship with horses is a study in contrasts, blending centuries-old tradition with a modernising industry that is finding its place in global markets. Across the continent, millions of equines (horses, donkeys, and mules) remain indispensable in agriculture, transport, and rural livelihoods. Yet a small but expanding segment – estimated at around 10% of the horse population – is now dedicated to organised sports, leisure, and racing, forming the backbone of Africa’s formal horse industry. While modest on the global stage, this sector is gaining momentum through a mixture of international successes, professionalisation of events, and the growth of equestrian-linked tourism and consumer brands. From the showjumping arenas of Cairo and Rabat to the storied racecourses of Durban and Port Louis, Africa’s equestrian world is stepping into a phase of opportunity. This analysis explores its sporting and commercial foundations, recent milestones, growth prospects, and its evolving role within the global equine economy.
Sporting Foundations: Competition & Culture
Equestrian sports in Africa encompass disciplines such as showjumping, dressage, eventing, polo, and endurance riding. Historically, these pursuits were concentrated in a few countries, often as elite pastimes, but recent years have seen broader development and participation. South Africa boasts the most developed equestrian scene in sub-Saharan Africa, with a passionate community and ambitious plans for growth. Equestrian clubs and national federations have been investing in training programs and competitions, leading to a rise in both the skill level and the fan base of the sport.
Showjumping, dressage, eventing, polo and endurance are no longer confined to a handful of clubs. South Africa remains the most complete ecosystem in sub-Saharan Africa, with federated disciplines, year-round calendars and a pipeline of riders who move between domestic Grand Prix classes and international tours. In North African nations like Egypt and Morocco, equestrian sport benefits from long-standing traditions and royal patronage, integrating African riders into the global circuit. Morocco’s investment in facilities has been especially catalytic, with Rabat’s Dar Es-Salam, Tétouan and El Jadida stepping onto the international circuit and anchoring the Morocco Royal Tour at CSI4* level. The Tour’s visibility has helped reposition Morocco as a serious equestrian nation and has created touchpoints for tourism, media and sponsors well beyond the arena, including at the El Jadida Salon du Cheval.
Egypt’s program shows how targeted support converts participation into podiums. Notably, Egypt’s showjumping team made history by qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics – the country’s first Olympic equestrian team appearance in 60 years. That milestone (their last team had competed in Rome 1960) underlined how African athletes are re-emerging on the world stage, spurred by talent and targeted support. The momentum has been sustained by athletes such as Nayel Nassar, whose Grand Prix wins in Europe and North America keep Egypt visible on global broadcasts and sponsor decks.
Beyond these high-profile qualifications, grassroots and developmental initiatives are expanding equestrian sports’ reach. Programs supported by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) and national bodies aim to make riding more accessible and inclusive across the continent. For example, the Dressage SA Solidarity Stars Project in South Africa was created to identify and coach talented riders from underprivileged communities, providing them with access to training and competition experience. This project’s success was recognised when it won the FEI Solidarity Award in 2022 – marking the first time the FEI awards ceremony was hosted on African soil and a proud moment for African equestrians. Other countries are following suit with youth academies and inter-African competitions. In Zimbabwe, the equestrian federation reports steady growth in rider numbers and skills, reflecting a wider regional trend of rising interest and investment in horse sports.
African equestrians are also earning individual accolades that signal the continent’s potential in the sport. A poignant example is Kenyan showjumper Muthoni Kimani, who overcame significant personal hardships to pursue her passion. After recovering from serious injuries, Muthoni became the first young African rider selected to train at the prestigious Cavalleria Toscana Academy in Italy. In 2022, she won the FEI Against All Odds Award, highlighting her journey of resilience and the growing opportunities for African riders to excel internationally.
Meanwhile, polo, the historic “sport of kings”, thrives in pockets of Africa, with established institutions like the Lagos Polo Club in Nigeria (founded 1914) and the Nairobi Polo Club in Kenya (founded 1907) bearing testament to the continent’s century-old polo culture. Today, polo tournaments from South Africa to Nigeria draw international participants and sponsors, further diversifying Africa’s equestrian sports landscape. Polo tournaments in Lagos now serve as platforms for international banks, beverage companies, and luxury brands, showing how equestrian sport in Africa blends heritage with lifestyle and corporate engagement.
All these developments in equestrian sports contribute to a more vibrant market, from riding apparel and horse feed sales to the growth of professional coaching, veterinary services and event management across Africa.
Racing & Betting Economies
Horse racing constitutes the most commercially significant segment of Africa’s horse industry, especially in countries where the sport has long-established roots. South Africa stands as the continent’s horseracing powerhouse, with a well-organised racing calendar, major racecourses, and a robust breeding sector.
The economic impact is substantial: the South African horseracing industry contributes about R2.71 billion (approximately $226 million) annually to the nation’s GDP. This figure underscores racing’s role in supporting jobs – from jockeys and trainers to grooms and veterinarians – and in generating revenue through betting and sponsorship. In recent years, South Africa’s racing and betting sector has shown strong growth. Betting turnover on horse racing hit a seven-year high in the 2023/24 financial year, having grown over 56% since 2017. This surge reflects both the resilience of the sport and an expanding gambling market, where horse race wagering remains a popular form of entertainment.
Recent audited statistics from the National Gambling Board show a record ZAR 59.3 billion in gross gambling revenue in 2023–24 and more than ZAR 1.1 trillion in turnover across all gambling segments. Betting has been a key growth driver, an environment in which horse racing still holds cultural share and event-day intensity. Wealthy businessmen and investors (including some of the country’s richest, like Johann Rupert) have continued to finance stud farms, racing yards, and major race sponsorships, attracted by both the tradition and business potential of racing. Signature events such as the Durban July Handicap and the Cape Town Met draw large crowds and significant media attention each year, cementing racing’s status as a mainstream sport in South African culture.
Outside of South Africa, horse racing thrives in several other African countries, each with its own character. Mauritius, a small island nation, occupies a special place in Africa’s racing circuit. The country boasts an average racing population of about 450 thoroughbred horses in training, and racing season at Port Louis’ Champ de Mars racecourse is a national obsession. Mauritian racing has a strong link with South Africa – in fact, nearly all of Mauritius’s racehorses are imported from South Africa, reflecting a long-standing partnership between the two markets. Weekly races in Mauritius attract enthusiastic local fans and significant betting activity, contributing to tourism and the local economy.
North African countries also feature notable racing traditions: Morocco and Tunisia have active racecourses and breeding programs (often influenced by French and Arabian racing culture), and Egypt has a storied history of racing dating back to the 19th century, although its modern racing scene is smaller today.
In East and West Africa, racing is on a more modest scale but not without significance. Kenya hosts regular races at Nairobi’s Ngong Racecourse, maintaining a legacy from colonial times and a community of racehorse owners and bettors. Zimbabwe and Nigeria likewise developed racing during the colonial era and have worked to sustain it post-independence. Indeed, horse racing spread to countries like Morocco, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria during the 20th century, and each has nurtured its own racing culture and event. For example, Zimbabwe’s Borrowdale Park in Harare once thrived as a top-notch racecourse, and efforts continue to revive its former glory despite economic challenges. In Nigeria, racing was introduced by the British and saw periods of popularity; today, initiatives exist to rejuvenate Nigerian racing and make it a viable sport and betting outlet again.
A pivotal regulatory change has improved Africa’s ability to trade horses and campaign abroad. In March 2024 the European Union re-authorised direct shipments of horses from South Africa’s African Horse Sickness-controlled export zone to Europe, ending a thirteen-year restriction that had forced costly and time-consuming rerouting. The decision restores access for South African breeders and owners to Europe’s sales and racing opportunities and should flow through to higher valuations, broader syndication and a more credible pipeline from the Cape’s AHS-free zone into European seasons. The move also boosts confidence among neighbouring markets that depend on South African logistics and veterinary standards.
Even in smaller markets, the cultural impact of racing is evident – local derbies and cup races can become major social events, bringing communities together. Overall, horse racing across Africa, whether at world-class venues or modest provincial tracks, contributes to the continent’s sporting tapestry and offers a livelihood for thousands. The industry includes not only the races themselves but also allied services like horse breeding, training facilities, wagering operations, and equestrian tourism, which together form a significant market segment within Africa’s broader economy.
Recent Years & Milestones
The past few years have been defined by pivotal developments that have reshaped Africa’s equestrian landscape. These milestones demonstrate how regulatory reforms, international recognition, and community-driven progress are beginning to align, creating momentum for the continent’s horse industry.
One of the most transformative changes came in 2024, when the European Union lifted its thirteen-year ban on direct horse exports from South Africa. The restriction, originally imposed due to outbreaks of African Horse Sickness, had forced South African horses bound for Europe to undergo lengthy quarantine and re-routing via Mauritius. Its removal restored the Cape Town export zone as a recognised entry point for European markets, significantly reducing both cost and time. For breeders and owners, this breakthrough reopened access to one of the world’s most lucrative circuits and renewed demand for South African-bred Thoroughbreds and sport horses. Industry leaders celebrated the decision as a catalyst for investment, job creation, and renewed global competitiveness, not only for South Africa but also for neighbouring countries that stand to benefit from improved confidence in African equine exports.
At the same time, African riders have been making headlines on the international stage. Egypt’s qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in showjumping, its first team appearance in sixty years, signalled a return to top-level equestrian sport for the nation and gave the wider continent a moment of visibility. Individual athletes have also brought Africa into the spotlight. Egyptian showjumper Nayel Nassar has become a fixture at the world’s leading Grand Prix events, raising his country’s profile, while Kenyan rider Muthoni Kimani’s recognition with the FEI Against All Odds Award highlighted the determination and talent emerging from new equestrian nations. Morocco has complemented this momentum by investing in world-class venues such as Bouznika and Dar Es Salam, which now host FEI World Cup qualifiers and attract international competitors. Together, these achievements illustrate how African riders and nations are integrating more closely with the global equestrian calendar.
On the racing front, African talent and breeding excellence have continued to prove themselves abroad. Before the export ban, South African-bred horses like Soft Falling Rain secured major victories on the international circuit, including Dubai’s Godolphin Mile. Trainers such as Mike de Kock have become respected figures far beyond Africa’s borders, mentoring jockeys and conditioning horses that perform at the highest level. With the ban lifted, the expectation is that African bloodstock will once again become a force on the global stage, revitalising an industry that thrives on international reputation and circulation.
Equally significant are the community-level milestones that show how equestrianism in Africa is diversifying its social impact. In Namibia, a therapeutic riding program for children with disabilities earned the FEI “Inspire” Award in 2023, drawing global recognition for its innovative approach to social development through horses. In West Africa, cultural horse festivals such as Nigeria’s durbars and the Fantasia exhibitions of the Maghreb have gained international audiences, blending tradition with performance and opening new avenues for tourism. Across the continent, the establishment of riding schools, veterinary clinics, and equine welfare programs through NGO and private-sector partnerships is strengthening the industry’s foundations.
Taken together, these milestones underscore the dynamism of Africa’s horse industry. From high-profile breakthroughs like the reopening of export markets and Olympic qualifications to grassroots projects that harness horses for education and inclusion, each achievement reinforces the sector’s growing legitimacy. They also serve as important signposts for investors, policymakers, and federations, showing that Africa’s equestrian sector is not only evolving but also producing tangible results that are reshaping its position in both regional and global contexts.
Growth Opportunities & Market Potential
Africa’s horse industry is positioned for a period of rapid expansion, supported by favourable economic, demographic, and cultural trends. The continent’s middle class is projected to exceed 500 million people by 2030, creating a powerful consumer base with growing appetite for leisure, lifestyle, and sporting activities. Horse ownership, once limited to elites or rural households relying on working equids, is now increasingly viewed as part of aspirational living, particularly among young professionals and urban families. Riding academies, polo clubs, and equestrian tourism offerings are all benefitting from this shift, with visible demand emerging in hubs such as Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, and Accra.
Tourism represents perhaps the most immediate and scalable opportunity. Africa already attracts millions of international visitors annually, and the global adventure tourism sector is forecast to grow at more than 10 percent annually through 2030. Horseback experiences are uniquely suited to Africa’s landscapes, whether through riding safaris in Kenya and Botswana, desert endurance challenges in Morocco and Namibia, or beach riding excursions in South Africa and Mauritius. Yet, compared to the equestrian tourism industries in Europe, North America, and Oceania, Africa’s offering remains underdeveloped. Investments in safety standards, professional guiding, and international marketing campaigns could allow African destinations to capture a far larger share of this multi-billion-dollar segment. By integrating horse-based experiences with existing wildlife or cultural tourism packages, countries like Tanzania and Botswana could diversify income streams for both rural communities and conservation programs.
The racing sector also offers untapped potential beyond South Africa. Nigeria, for instance, combines a strong horse culture in its northern states with one of the largest gambling markets in Africa. With effective regulation, investment in modern racecourses, and the establishment of credible betting platforms, racing could become a $500 million annual contributor to Nigerian GDP. Kenya is another example: its Ngong Racecourse retains a loyal community of owners and bettors, but strategic upgrades in infrastructure and promotion could transform it into a regional hub for East Africa. Racing also provides spillover benefits into tourism, event management, and hospitality, all sectors that stand to gain as circuits are revived and internationalised.
Education and professional training form another crucial frontier. Across Africa, there is high demand for equine veterinarians, farriers, riding coaches, physiotherapists, and nutritionists. Yet most countries rely heavily on expertise imported from Europe or the Middle East. Establishing regional centres of excellence in equine sciences – potentially aligned with existing agricultural or veterinary universities – would not only build domestic capacity but also position Africa as a supplier of skilled professionals to the global equestrian industry. This would also strengthen the continent’s ability to respond to endemic health threats such as African Horse Sickness, improving biosecurity and supporting export ambitions.
Cultural equestrianism also carries significant growth potential. Morocco’s Tbourida, recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, has raised international awareness of Africa’s equestrian traditions. Nigeria’s durbars and Senegal’s horse festivals similarly blend sport, history, and community identity in ways that appeal to cultural tourists. With proper investment, such festivals could be scaled into regional attractions that combine performance, craft, and tourism revenues, extending the horse industry’s economic footprint into the creative economy.
Taken together, these opportunities point to a horse industry on the cusp of transformation. With strategic investment, supportive policy frameworks, and cross-border collaboration, Africa’s fragmented equestrian landscape can consolidate into a coherent and internationally recognised sector.
Marketing & Branding: The African Horse Industry
One of the most powerful levers for unlocking growth in the African horse industry lies in how it is marketed and branded. For much of the 20th century, equestrianism in Africa was framed either as an elite leisure pursuit or as a traditional practice tied to rural communities. The challenge now is to reposition it as both aspirational and accessible, capable of attracting investment, inspiring new participants, and securing a place in the global equestrian conversation.
Events are at the heart of this branding transformation. The Morocco Royal Tour has become a benchmark for African equestrian sport, delivering CSI4* competitions that draw elite riders from across Europe and the Middle East. Beyond the sporting dimension, it functions as a platform for tourism promotion, luxury branding, and cultural diplomacy. Sponsors such as banks, telecoms firms, and international equestrian brands now align themselves with the Tour, while Morocco benefits from international media coverage and inbound tourism spend. Similarly, the Durban July in South Africa demonstrates how racing events can evolve into cultural milestones. Drawing over 50,000 spectators annually, the Durban July is celebrated as much for its fashion and celebrity presence as for its betting and racing, earning comparisons to the Royal Ascot and the Kentucky Derby. Its rebranding under Hollywoodbets has reinforced the event’s dual identity as both a racing spectacle and a lifestyle occasion, attracting sponsorship from luxury carmakers, champagne houses, and fashion brands.
Polo has also played a vital role in aligning African equestrianism with aspirational lifestyles. Tournaments in Lagos, Nairobi, and Accra are increasingly packaged as social and corporate networking events, supported by sponsors such as Heineken, Access Bank, and BMW. These events cater to Africa’s growing affluent consumer base, using equestrian sport as a stage for brand activation. Polo tournaments frequently double as fashion showcases, reinforcing the link between equestrian culture and luxury branding.
Digital media has amplified these efforts. African riders are leveraging Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to share their training journeys, competition highlights, and personal stories. This not only humanises the sport but also widens its audience beyond traditional participants. Riders like Muthoni Kimani and emerging showjumpers in Nigeria and South Africa are building online communities that attract sponsors and inspire aspiring riders. Social media also enables federations and clubs to engage with younger demographics, promoting accessibility and reshaping the perception of equestrianism as inclusive rather than exclusive.
Marketing extends into policy and positioning as well. Federations that present equestrianism not only as cultural heritage or sport but also as a contributor to GDP, job creation, and international visibility make stronger cases for government support. Morocco’s polished hosting of international competitions and South Africa’s bloodstock export reforms illustrate how branding can shift perceptions at the policy level, framing equestrian industries as strategic national assets rather than niche leisure sectors.
Ultimately, branding and marketing are not add-ons but central drivers of Africa’s equestrian growth. By professionalising events, amplifying athlete stories, and leveraging equestrianism’s lifestyle appeal, the industry can capture new markets, attract sponsorship, and secure its place within Africa’s broader cultural and economic strategies.
Africa in the Global Equine Economy
Globally, the equine economy is vast. The United States alone values its horse industry at more than $120 billion annually, with nearly 7 million horses supporting 1.7 million jobs. Europe, with its concentration of breeding and racing centres in Ireland, France, and Germany, generates billions in annual turnover. The Middle East has developed some of the world’s most prestigious racing and endurance events, building international influence through equestrian sport. Against this backdrop, Africa’s formal horse industry remains relatively small – but its trajectory and assets are increasingly significant.
Africa is home to tens of millions of equines, the majority of which are working animals supporting rural livelihoods. This makes its economic profile different from Europe or North America, where leisure and competition dominate. Yet Africa is carving out niches of international importance. South Africa’s Thoroughbred breeding industry is internationally respected, producing racehorses that have won in Dubai, Hong Kong, and the UK. The lifting of the EU’s export ban has reopened access to Europe, restoring South Africa’s role in the global bloodstock market. Morocco and Egypt, meanwhile, are building reputations as competitive showjumping nations, hosting FEI-sanctioned events that attract riders from Europe and the Middle East.
Tourism is another key avenue through which Africa integrates into the global equine economy. International demand for horseback safaris, desert endurance races, and cultural performances like Morocco’s Tbourida highlights Africa’s ability to offer experiences unavailable elsewhere. The global equestrian tourism market is estimated to exceed $20 billion annually, and Africa’s share could grow substantially as its offerings become more professional and more widely marketed.
African riders themselves are becoming ambassadors in the global sporting economy. Egyptian, Moroccan, and South African athletes competing abroad not only raise their nations’ profiles but also help attract sponsorship and investment back home. The Moroccan Royal Tour, South Africa’s international racing successes, and Kenya’s polo heritage all serve as platforms for integrating Africa into international equestrian networks.
Africa’s global role mirrors its wider economic story: currently a smaller player, but with distinctive assets, cultural depth, and rising international recognition. As biosecurity strengthens, professional standards rise, and marketing becomes more sophisticated, Africa’s contribution to the global equestrian industry will expand. The momentum already underway – from reopened export channels to globally respected events – suggests that Africa’s equine economy will become increasingly relevant in the decade ahead.
Fashion, Lifestyle, Emerging Brands and Product Trends
The African horse industry is not only shaped by competition and tradition but increasingly by the growth of new brands and consumer markets that link equestrianism to wider lifestyle, fashion, and luxury economies. Emerging African companies in apparel, supplements, and equipment are bridging local heritage with global trends, while international brands are beginning to view Africa as both a sales destination and a source of distinctive products.
Equestrian fashion is one of the most dynamic areas of growth. South African designers have launched apparel lines that blend performance fabrics with African-inspired motifs, creating products that appeal not only to local riders but also to global consumers seeking authenticity. Polo and racing events across the continent – such as the Durban July in South Africa and the Lagos Polo Tournament in Nigeria – have become fashion showcases as much as sporting events. Media coverage now highlights designer collaborations, luxury brand sponsorships, and celebrity appearances, reinforcing the idea that equestrian sport sits at the intersection of performance and lifestyle. This cultural crossover provides fertile ground for African brands to scale, positioning themselves alongside international giants in the equestrian leisurewear sector.
Veterinary products and supplements are also gaining momentum. Endemic challenges such as African Horse Sickness and parasitic infections drive high demand for vaccines, diagnostics, and nutritional support. Multinational firms such as Zoetis and Boehringer Ingelheim are active across African markets, but local producers are emerging with affordable supplements tailored to regional conditions. Products such as electrolyte boosters, herbal remedies, and feed additives are increasingly marketed to competitive riders in South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco, where expectations align with European standards. NGOs working with working equids in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Senegal are also fostering demand for low-cost veterinary tools, creating entry points for regional suppliers to serve both sport horses and working equines. As equestrian sport professionalises and veterinary infrastructure strengthens, the supplement sector is expected to expand sharply over the next decade.
The equestrian equipment market reflects both regional realities and global consumer trends. In mature markets such as South Africa and Egypt, demand exists for high-end saddles, bridles, helmets, and boots, with imported brands like Prestige, Pikeur, and Samshield dominating the upper tier. However, local manufacturers are gaining ground with mid-range alternatives, appealing to emerging middle-class riders. In developing markets like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, entry-level tack and multipurpose equipment sourced through regional distributors or online platforms remain in demand.
Safety and technology are reshaping expectations. Globally, innovations such as airbag vests, smart riding helmets, and wearable horse health trackers are growing in popularity. Adoption in Africa remains limited, but awareness is increasing as elite riders competing abroad bring these products home. This creates opportunities for distributors and local innovators to adapt global technologies for African conditions. Sustainability is another key trend, with eco-conscious consumers seeking products made from recycled materials or produced through responsible supply chains. Recycled saddle pads, solar-powered stable equipment, and biodegradable grooming kits are examples of products African brands could leverage, aligning with the continent’s strong narrative around conservation and environmental stewardship.
Equestrian events provide a bridge between equipment sales, fashion, and luxury markets. The Durban July has evolved into a showcase for haute couture, drawing comparisons to the Royal Ascot in the UK or the Kentucky Derby in the US. Polo tournaments in Lagos and Nairobi regularly host activations by luxury carmakers, champagne houses, and watch companies, creating crossover opportunities between equestrian sport and international luxury branding. These crossovers highlight equestrian sport’s ability to appeal to affluent consumers while also providing platforms for emerging African lifestyle brands to gain visibility alongside global giants.
In the long term, the alignment of Africa’s equestrian sector with lifestyle, fashion, and luxury trends may be as transformative as its sporting development. By nurturing homegrown brands in equipment, apparel, and supplements, while also courting international partnerships, Africa can ensure its equestrian economy resonates beyond domestic markets and contributes meaningfully to the global equestrian lifestyle industry.
Challenges & Outcomes
Despite the momentum, Africa’s horse industry faces structural challenges that must be addressed for long-term sustainability. The most persistent is the threat of animal diseases, particularly African Horse Sickness. Endemic in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, AHS disrupts competition calendars, constrains breeding, and limits international trade. South Africa has made significant strides in containing outbreaks through controlled zones and export protocols, efforts that culminated in the 2024 lifting of the EU export ban. Yet the disease remains a regional challenge, requiring continued investment in veterinary research, surveillance, and vaccination.
Economic accessibility is another hurdle. High-level equestrian sports demand significant investment in horses, facilities, and training, costs that remain prohibitive for much of Africa’s population. As a result, participation often remains confined to elites or those with state sponsorship. Expanding access will depend on the rise of a broader middle class and on efforts by federations and NGOs to democratise participation. Community riding schools, subsidised training programs, and entry-level competitions are emerging across several countries, but scale remains limited.
Welfare also remains central to the industry’s outlook. While sport horses are increasingly supported by modern veterinary infrastructure, the majority of the continent’s equines are working animals, relied upon by millions of households for transport, farming, and trade. Their welfare is inseparable from rural livelihoods and from the broader reputation of equestrianism in Africa. International NGOs such as The Donkey Sanctuary, Brooke, and SPANA have long worked in countries including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Senegal, delivering veterinary outreach, owner education, and farrier services. These initiatives reduce preventable suffering, extend working lifespans, and strengthen community resilience. For the sport and racing sectors, maintaining high welfare standards is equally vital to securing public trust and sustaining international participation. African federations increasingly recognise that welfare frameworks – from biosecurity against AHS to transparent competition rules – are not just ethical imperatives but strategic necessities. Aligning sport horse welfare with global standards strengthens Africa’s credibility abroad, while grassroots welfare programs highlight the wider social contribution of the horse industry.
Infrastructure gaps also constrain growth. Modern racecourses, showgrounds, and veterinary hospitals are concentrated in a handful of countries, while many regions lack basic equine facilities. Currency volatility and import tariffs further raise the costs of acquiring horses, equipment, and feed. Building local production capacity – whether through breeding programs, equipment manufacturing, or feed supply – will be critical to reducing dependence on imports and strengthening resilience.
Yet the outlook remains cautiously optimistic. Africa’s youthful demographics, rising consumer base, and expanding infrastructure all point toward growth. International bodies such as the FEI and the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities have increased support, allocating resources to solidarity programs, coaching clinics, and event hosting. Youth-focused initiatives are making progress in reshaping equestrianism as an inclusive sport, expanding the talent pool, and shifting its image away from exclusivity. The surge in betting turnover in South Africa illustrates strong consumer appetite for horse-related entertainment, while tourism-driven equestrian offerings demonstrate the continent’s global appeal.
The next decade will likely see greater integration of equestrian sport into broader African economies. Riding schools and racing clubs are expected to expand their reach, tourism operators will invest more in equine experiences, and local manufacturers will begin to scale into regional suppliers of equipment and supplements. The challenge for stakeholders will be to balance growth with sustainability – ensuring that equestrian development is underpinned by robust veterinary systems, inclusive participation, and careful stewardship of Africa’s equestrian heritage.
Final Thoughts
The horse industry in Africa is in a phase of meaningful evolution. It remains a relatively small player globally, but its importance within the African context is undeniable – economically, culturally, and socially. Strong foundations in countries such as South Africa and Mauritius, combined with growing enthusiasm in others like Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya, have created a resilient sector that continues to adapt and expand. Recent reforms, renewed international participation, and a series of milestones – from Olympic qualifications to export breakthroughs – demonstrate that the industry is no longer defined solely by potential but by measurable progress.
Stakeholders who prioritise youth participation, strengthen veterinary and educational infrastructure, and market equestrian activities as both aspirational and accessible will be well placed to capitalise on emerging opportunities. Governments that integrate equestrian sport into tourism strategies or cultural diplomacy can unlock new revenue streams while enhancing soft power. Investors who support local brands in equipment, apparel, and supplements can not only serve rising domestic demand but also position African products for global appeal. Welfare must also remain a priority, not only for the continent’s growing sport horse population but also for the millions of working equids that sustain rural livelihoods. By embedding welfare standards into both grassroots and high-performance contexts, Africa can strengthen its international credibility while demonstrating the broader social value of its equestrian culture.
The success stories emerging across the continent, from South African horses competing on international tracks to Morocco’s polished hosting of global showjumping circuits, and budding grassroots programs that make riding accessible to new communities, show that progress is already underway. Each achievement builds momentum and adds to the industry’s credibility at home and abroad. Welfare programs in Ethiopia, Senegal, and Namibia further reinforce the idea that the equestrian industry is not only a contributor to GDP but also a force for community development and social resilience.
The coming decade will likely see Africa’s equestrian sector become more professional, better integrated into the global economy, and more closely tied to lifestyle, tourism, and cultural expression. Its trajectory is upward, supported by demographic trends, rising consumer interest, and the continent’s distinctive equestrian heritage. The African horse industry is not only surviving; it is steadily galloping into a future where it stands as both a thriving market and a source of pride – one that reflects Africa’s traditions while engaging dynamically with the global stage.
Sources:
Ajmer Singh, Yash Pal, Jitender Prashad, Rajender Kumar, Sanjay Kumar and Prabhat Kumar, ‘A Study of Socio-Economic Aspects of Equine Farmers in Haryana, India’ (2022) 40(10) Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology 1143.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), ‘FAOSTAT: Live Animals (Horses) – Africa Dataset’ (accessed 2025).
Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), Annual Report 2022 (2023).
FEI, ‘Dressage SA Solidarity Stars Project wins FEI Solidarity Award’ (2022).
FEI, ‘Muthoni Kimani wins the FEI Against All Odds Award’ (2022).
FEI, ‘South Africa to Europe horse exports to resume following EU decision’ (15 May 2025).
Laura M. Redmond, Aoife M. Carr, Christina I. Boshuizen, Catherine A. McCarthy and Simon J. More, ‘An Economic Assessment of an African Horse Sickness Control Strategy for the Republic of South Africa’ (2022) 54(2) Equine Veterinary Journal 315–325. https://doi.org/10.1111/evj.13478.
European Commission, Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/3260 of 18 November 2024 on animal health measures concerning the movement of equidae from the Republic of South Africa.
European Commission, Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety, ‘African horse sickness – Description and control measures’ (accessed 2025).
World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), ‘African Horse Sickness – Disease Information’ (web dossier; accessed 2025).
WOAH, African Horse Sickness – Technical Factsheet (March 2021).
Center for Food Security and Public Health (Iowa State University), African Horse Sickness – Fact Sheet (May 2024).
National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa, Annual Report 2024 (published 15 January 2025).
Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, Annual Report 2023/24 (2024).
National Gambling Board (South Africa), Annual Report 2023/24 (2024).
International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), International Statistics Database (country pages for South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Mauritius; accessed 2025).
Daily Investor, ‘Horse racing’s comeback in South Africa’ (24 April 2025).
City of eThekwini (Durban), ‘Hollywoodbets Durban July brings major economic boost’ (municipal news release; July 2024).
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, ‘Bumper crowd for Hollywoodbets Durban July 2023 and a big boost for KwaZulu-Natal economy’ (media release; June 2023).
Morocco Royal Tour (MRT), ‘Presentation’ (updated 2024): circuit history, CSI4* status and Nations Cup details.
MRT, ‘The Morocco Royal Tour 2024: An elite sporting circuit with a unique personality’ (news page; 2024).
UNESCO, ‘Tbourida (Morocco) – Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ (inscribed 2021).
Jockey Club of Kenya, ‘About – Our History’ and ‘Horse Racing at Ngong Racecourse’ (accessed 2025).
Brooke, Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, Annual Report 2023/24 (London: Brooke, 2024).
SPANA, Education and Veterinary Outreach in Africa: Impact Report (2023).
The Donkey Sanctuary, ‘Global Working Equids Report: Africa Focus’ (2023).
World Horse Welfare, ‘Improving Equine Welfare in Africa: Partnerships and Progress’ (2022).
African Union, Sport Policy Framework for Sustainable Development in Africa 2023–2033 (2023).
African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), ‘Livestock Development and Equine Contributions in Africa’ (2024).
World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Economic Impact Report: Africa 2024 (2024).
United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), ‘Adventure Tourism in Africa: Market Growth and Potential’ (2023).
American Horse Council, ‘Results from the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study Released’ (31 January 2024).
American Horse Council, ‘2023 Economic Impact of the Horse Industry’ (resources overview; accessed 2025).
British Equestrian, A Literature Review of the Social Value of Equestrianism (2024).
FEI Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission, A Good Life for Horses: A Vision for the Future of Equestrianism (Final Report to the FEI Board, 14 November 2023).
HorseSport, ‘Morocco Royal Tour Gets Underway in Tetouan’ (20 September 2024).
City of Cape Town / Wesgro, ‘Cape Town climbs global rankings as a top destination for international association meetings’ (2025).
