A charity documentary has highlighted the human and equine cost of the climate emergency in West Africa. After 12 months of record temperatures, the new film explores the experience of the nomadic Peule people in Senegal.
Over one million working equines, vital to the livelihoods of millions in this West-African nation, are struggling to find food and water due to drastic changes in weather patterns. In response, World Horse Welfare is expanding its efforts, aiming to improve the welfare of these essential animals and, by extension, the communities depending on them.
The documentary launched by the equine charity this month (watch below) highlights the challenges the climate emergency has exacerbated and how it is helping, while following two Peule families. Weather patterns are severely impacting their living conditions, their children’s education, the health of their livestock and the welfare of their equines, who are imperative to their survival.
The shortening rainy season forces families to travel longer distances in search of food and water for their families and livestock. This situation is particularly severe for the Peule, where the nomadic community rely on seasonal movements for grazing.
“Horses have been part of the Peule’s lives for generations, but they have never been as important as they are today,” said Abdoulaye Thaim,World Horse Welfare’s National Coordinator in Senegal. “They cherish their working horses and donkeys because they have made life better for their children and their survival depends on these hard-working animals. Whole families depend on horses for their very survival, but they are watching them starve.”
World Horse Welfare is calling for support to continue this vital work. By donating to its latest appeal, supporters can help improve the lives of working horses in Senegal and the communities that depend on them.
