Behind the grandeur of Egypt’s iconic Pyramids and the Longines Global Champions Tour Cairo that took place last week, thousands of working animals play an important role in everyday life. Now, a new five-year initiative aims to make a lasting difference to their welfare, bringing together the equestrian community, government organisations and animal welfare experts to create a better future for horses and other animals across Giza.
Announced by the Egyptian Equestrian Federation (EEF), Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) and their partners, the programme represents a long-term commitment to improving the health, care and living conditions of working animals in the region.
The initiative unites the EEF, LGCT, the General Organization for Veterinary Services (GOVS), the Egyptian government, Orascom Pyramids and international equine welfare charity Brooke. Independent oversight will help ensure the programme is implemented effectively and its objectives are met.
Building on existing work to register and microchip horses, provide vaccinations and conduct veterinary examinations, the initiative aims to deliver meaningful, lasting improvements to the lives of animals and the people who depend on them.
The first phase will focus on approximately 700 horses, with plans to extend support to around 2,000 animals in a second phase. A detailed roadmap is being developed, with key priorities including:
Better access to essential care: Improving the availability of nutritious feed, clean water, veterinary treatment and vital medication.
Education to create lasting change: Providing training and guidance for horse owners and those responsible for the daily care of working animals.
A long-term commitment to welfare: Establishing ongoing monitoring and clear expectations for responsible animal ownership.
Building a sustainable future: Developing a dedicated funding mechanism, supported by participating organisations and offering opportunities for riders, owners, sponsors and the public to contribute.
At its heart, the initiative is about more than veterinary care. It is about recognising the needs of animals whose working lives are closely intertwined with the communities around the Pyramids, and ensuring that their welfare receives sustained attention and support.
Through collaboration, education and long-term investment, the programme aims to turn shared commitment into tangible improvements; helping working horses across Giza enjoy healthier lives, better care and a future in which their welfare remains a priority.
The working horses of Egypt deserve the same care as the top level showjumpers that visited the country last week, and this initiative has that message of good welfare for every horse at its heart.