The African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) sponsored a horse race in Nyala, South Darfur, on 4 May to promote peaceful coexistence among the many communities of the region.

Horse racing was popular during the Darfur Sultanate, which existed from the late 16th century. The roots of today’s Darfuri race horses can be traced to British colonizers, who imported thoroughbreds for the umdas and sheiks who cross-bred them with Arab stock. Although held less frequently than before the conflict, horse and camel racing continues to draw crowds and supporters across tribal and community lines, particularly in South Darfur.

“Horse racing builds bridges, as all communities and tribes enjoy it,” said Omar Musa, secretary of the South Darfur Equestrian Union.

The fiercely-contested Nyala Derby—rebranded for the 6 May gathering by UNAMID as a “race to peace”—is the second biggest racing course in Sudan, attracting prize horses, their owners and jockeys from different regions. More than 2,000 spectators from the local population were on hand, along with UNAMID officials, troops and police.

“The race was organized to showcase the skills of horses and jockeys, a sport enjoyed everywhere, no matter what your background,” said Susan Manuel, Deputy Director of Communications and Public Information for UNAMID. “We hope this competition will help people to get together for the enjoyment of these beautiful animals.”

Addressing the occasion, the Wali (Governor) of South Darfur State, Mr. Hammad Ismail Hammad, called UNAMID “a true partner whose contribution is clear as the Mission shares with the communities of Darfur activities such as the one we are celebrating.”

The Wali hailed the state equestrian union for its role in consolidating the social fabric and bringing the people together for an afternoon of enjoyment.

In addition to holding a horse race, a camel race was held, as “camel-racing builds bridges,” according to Mr. Musa. Hakkamat singers, who are women decorated with symbolic armor and traditionally urged men into war, sang to encourage the horses and riders towards victory and to motivate the crowd to cultivate peace and reconciliation.

Darfur horses, known locally as “barbs,” are descendants of British and American thoroughbreds and Arabian stock. Strong and able to endure hot dry climates, they are prized by horse lovers who come from as far as Nigeria to buy them, sometimes for hundreds of thousands of Sudanese pounds.

The first “race to peace,” dedicated to UNAMID Force Commander Lt. Gen. Patrick Nyamvumba, was won by the horse Arad Al Shaam. The second race, in honor of Ms. Manuel, was won by El Hagan, while the third, longer race, in honour of UNAMID Head Ibrahim Gambari, was won by the horse Shawahig.
 

Communications and Public Information Division Media Contacts
Susan Manuel, Deputy Director, manuels@un.org, +249 (0) 922 410274
Chris Cycmanick, Head, Media Relations, cycmanick@un.org, +249 912 538 436
Daniel Adekera, Head of Public Info Office Nyala,adekera@un.org Mobile + 249 (0) 922410043