The Foutanke is also referred to as the Fouta is a distinct light horse breed that originates from Senegal the nation that has long and rich equestrian heritage in West Africa. The Foutanke breed is an outcome of selective breeding.
In this breed, the sturdy Fleuve stallion as well as the beautiful M’Bayar mare are crossed, resulting in an animal that is akin to the Fleuve. The Fouta is considered to be one of the four esteemed Senegalese horse breeds, along with the M’Bayar and the Fleuve as well as the M’Par.
Particularly praised for its performance in racing horses The Foutanke is recognized for its blend of speed, agility and stamina. This makes it the preferred breed in this fierce and culturally rich sport.
History:
Finding the history of Senegal’s equine population, specifically that of Foutanke breed, poses an issue because of the lack of a comprehensive record of historical data.
But the upward in the number of horses in Senegal is an indication of the changing landscape of the equine industry in the region. In particular, by the year 1996 Senegal became the most populous nation in West Africa in terms of horse population, having the estimated number of 400 horses.
This figure is an astonishing increase over the number of 216,000 animals that were reported in 1978 and a more significant increase since the post-war period in which the number of horses was only thirty thousand.
It is believed that the Foutanke breed, though essential to the equestrian heritage of Senegal however, is a little elusive regarding its numbers of individuals.
In 2007, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) acknowledged the absence of precise data needed to establish the condition of the breed’s conservation. This adds to the overall story of the Foutanke breed – one that is cloaked in the haze of history, yet integral to the equestrian and cultural weaving of Senegal.
Physical Characteristics:
Size and Build: The Fouta is generally smaller in stature, standing around 14 to 15 hands high. They exhibit a lean, athletic build, enabling them to navigate the rugged terrains of their native highlands.
Color and Coat: It is common for them to have a smooth, glossy coat that is typically seen in the colors of bay, chestnut and occasionally gray. Their coats are well-known for their resistance to the varied and occasionally tough African climate.
Ability to adapt: Exceptionally resilient. Fouta horses are adept at adapting to the local conditions, and capable of living in both dry and wet times that occur in West Africa.
Temperament and Abilities:
Endurance and Stamina: The horses are known for their remarkable endurance and stamina, frequently running long distances and not suffering from fatigue.
Temperament: The Fouta is well-known for its alertness, intelligence and gentle temperament which makes them ideal for a variety of equestrian requirements for riding, herding, as well as work animals.