The Libyan Horseracing Authority held an awareness workshop last Sunday to advance its national campaign aimed at regularizing the registration of locally bred Thoroughbred horses. The event brought together department heads, staff members, veterinary professionals, and representatives from relevant institutions.
The workshop outlined procedures for registering unlisted horses, including the installation of electronic microchips, DNA testing protocols, and the importance of pedigree documentation to ensure fair competition standards.
Officials from the Studbook Department emphasized that the initiative builds on ongoing efforts to maintain internationally compliant horse records and establish a legally sound framework for local breeders.
Board member Fathi Qazima described the campaign as the final step in resolving registration issues for domestic horses. He announced that international passports would be issued to eligible horses—currently estimated at around 1,100—and urged owners to cooperate with field visits conducted by veterinarians to expedite the process. He also noted that penalties would apply to those who fail to register.
Studbook Director Mohamed Al-Basir called the campaign a culmination of the Authority’s work to safeguard Libya’s equine heritage. He confirmed that operations had begun in Sorman and Misrata and would expand to eastern and southern regions. Al-Basir encouraged breeders to engage actively, noting that follow-up lists would be published to ensure campaign success.
The first day of fieldwork in Sorman, Qasr Bin Ghashir, and Zawiya saw strong turnout and cooperation from horse owners. Notably, the youngest foal yet registered received its microchip, reflecting growing awareness of early pedigree documentation.
The Authority urged all owners to participate within the designated timeframe and complete legal registration procedures. It also called on owners of imported horses from Italy to take advantage of the campaign’s field visits to finalize required documentation.
