The Brooke - Brooke International

Petra Ingram, Chief Executive of The Brooke © Brooke

A Message from Petra Ingram, Brooke's Chief Executive

Welcome to the Brooke website, and if you have visited us before, welcome back!

Did you know that there are 7.8 million equine animals in Ethiopia? They are a fundamental part of the lives of most rural families, carrying wood to market, transporting farm produce to collection points, ensuring a supply of water and a taxi service for people.

Often working in the poorest communities, over worked and over looked, these horses, donkeys and mules are providing a vital supporting role.

Earlier this year, I made a visit to Ethiopia and spent a few days in the field with the Brooke team. I was able to witness the difference we have already made in the timber market where donkeys arrive after having travelled for several hours with heavy loads – they are now unloaded and allowed to graze, before making a return journey. The donkeys can rest and their wounds have reduced. We have provided training for the farriers – demand for their skills has increased and owners are prepared to pay more as they recognize the increase in quality. The horses are better balanced, they do not fall when pulling the carts and their shoes stay on for longer.

All of this is happening in a small area south of Addis Ababa, but the need is great and later this year we will be developing our expansion plans, which we hope will include more widespread intervention across the country. Our work in Ethiopia combined with expansion in Senegal and parts of India will all be planned to ensure over the next few years we help a greater number of equine animals in the most effective way. There will always be challenges, but with the skills and dedication of our teams, we will work with local people to ensure these are overcome.

Please enjoy your visit to our website, you will find there is a great deal of information on all our work. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, we will be happy to help.