Burkina Faso Turf: A Guide to the Horse Racing Culture and Industry in the Land of Upright People

Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, is known for its rich and diverse culture, its resilient and hospitable people, and its vibrant and colorful festivals. But did you know that Burkina Faso also has a thriving horse racing culture and industry? We will explore the history, the present, and the future of Burkina Faso turf, and how it reflects the spirit and identity of the Burkinabé people.

The History of Burkina Faso Turf

Horse racing in Burkina Faso dates back to the pre-colonial era, when horses were used for transportation, warfare, and prestige. The Mossi kingdoms, which dominated the region for centuries, were renowned for their cavalry and their equestrian skills. Horses were considered sacred animals, and were treated with respect and care. The Mossi kings and nobles owned large stables of horses, and organized races and competitions to showcase their power and wealth.

The colonial period brought new influences and challenges to the horse racing culture in Burkina Faso. The French colonizers introduced modern breeds of horses, such as Arabians and Thoroughbreds, and established official racetracks and clubs. They also imposed taxes and regulations on the local horse owners, which threatened their livelihoods and traditions. However, the Burkinabé people resisted and adapted to the changes, and continued to practice their ancestral equestrian arts.

The independence of Burkina Faso in 1960 marked a new era for the horse racing industry in the country. The government recognized the importance of horse racing for the national identity and economy, and supported its development and promotion. The National Federation of Horse Racing was created in 1964, and the National Center for Horse Breeding was established in 1974. The country also hosted several regional and international horse racing events, such as the Grand Prix of West Africa and the African Cup of Nations.

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The Present of Burkina Faso Turf

Today, horse racing is one of the most popular sports and entertainment activities in Burkina Faso. There are more than 20 racetracks across the country, where races are held every weekend. The most famous racetrack is the Hippodrome de Ouagadougou, which can accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. The races attract thousands of fans from all walks of life, who come to enjoy the spectacle, cheer for their favorite horses and jockeys, and place bets on the outcomes.

The horse racing industry in Burkina Faso is also a source of income and employment for many people. There are more than 2,000 registered horse owners in the country, who invest in breeding, training, feeding, and caring for their horses. There are also hundreds of jockeys, trainers, veterinarians, blacksmiths, saddlers, groomers, and other professionals who work in the sector. The horse racing business generates millions of CFA francs every year, which contributes to the national economy.

The horse racing culture in Burkina Faso is also a reflection of the social and political realities of the country. The races are often used as platforms for expressing opinions, raising awareness, or advocating for causes. For example, in 2014, during the popular uprising that ousted President Blaise Compaoré from power, some horse owners named their horses after slogans or leaders of the movement. Some examples are “Le Balai Citoyen” (The Citizen Broom), “Sankara” (after Thomas Sankara), or “La Patrie ou la Mort” (The Homeland or Death).

The Future of Burkina Faso Turf

The horse racing industry in Burkina Faso faces many challenges and opportunities in the future. Some of the challenges include:

• The lack of adequate infrastructure and equipment for the racetracks and stables.
• The competition from other forms of gambling and entertainment.
• The impact of climate change and environmental degradation on the availability and quality of water and pasture for the horses.
• The threat of diseases and parasites that affect the health and performance of the horses.
• The need for more regulation and transparency in the betting system.

Some of the opportunities include:

• The potential for expanding the market and attracting more customers from within and outside the country.
• The possibility of improving the quality and diversity of the horse breeds through cross-breeding or importing.
• The opportunity of enhancing the skills and professionalism of the horse racing actors through training and education.
• The prospect of increasing the visibility and recognition of the horse racing industry through media coverage and promotion.
• The chance of fostering more cooperation and exchange with other horse racing countries in Africa or elsewhere.

Conclusion

Burkina Faso turf is more than just a sport or a hobby; it is a way of life and a source of pride for the Burkinabé people. It is a manifestation of their history, their culture, and their identity. It is also a dynamic and evolving industry that offers many benefits and challenges for the country. Burkina Faso turf is a living testament to the intricate connections between nature, culture, and life.