The Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse (SOREC) and the Beninese Federation of Equestrian Sports (FeBeSEq) signed a framework agreement on Friday. Officials finalized the partnership on the sidelines of the 17th edition of the El Jadida Horse Show in Morocco. This accord establishes a formal cooperation between the two organizations to advance the equine sector. By connecting the Moroccan expertise held by SOREC with the objectives of FeBeSEq in Benin, the agreement creates a structured path for future development within the industry. Stakeholders intend for this collaboration to enhance equestrian infrastructure and sports management practices in both nations. The signing ceremony took place during the international event held in El Jadida.
Strategic Goals and Support
The framework agreement focuses on providing strategic and technical support to structure the equine sector in Benin. Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse (SOREC) and the Beninese Federation of Equestrian Sports (FeBeSEq) identified these areas as central to the partnership finalized at the El Jadida Horse Show. By sharing technical expertise, SOREC aims to assist in the professional organization of equine activities within Benin. This cooperation includes the development of institutional frameworks necessary for long-term growth. Officials from both organizations intend for this technical guidance to improve management practices and infrastructure. Omar Skalli, representing SOREC, expects the collaboration to help align Beninese equestrian operations with established standards. The agreement sets a foundation for SOREC to provide consulting and operational oversight as Benin works to build its domestic industry. These efforts target the creation of a sustainable environment for equine sports and associated economic activities.
Professional Training and Development
Training initiatives within the partnership prioritize the professional development of individuals involved in horse breeding and racing. These programs aim to build technical capacity among Beninese personnel by utilizing the established methodologies of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse.
Genetic improvement constitutes a primary objective of the cooperation, focusing on the systematic selection and acquisition of horses suitable for breeding purposes in Benin. This component intends to upgrade the quality of the local horse population through collaborative oversight and the application of Moroccan breeding practices.
Trade exchanges and the sharing of professional expertise form the final pillar of the agreement, designed to facilitate a continuous flow of knowledge between Moroccan and Beninese practitioners. SOREC Director General Omar Skalli stated: "The agreement reflects the company’s commitment to sharing its experience and expertise with its African partners, expressing hope that the cooperation will help develop skills and strengthen exchanges between the equine sectors in the two countries."
These efforts establish a framework for ongoing interaction between the equine industries of both nations. By integrating these three areas of professional development, the Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Horse and the Beninese Federation of Equestrian Sports seek to create a sustainable environment for equine management. The partnership provides the necessary structure for professionals to exchange information, thereby reinforcing the operational standards of the sector in Benin.