Mali’s iconic Hippodrome in Bamako recently reopened its traditional horse races on Sundays after closing in March due to COVID-19. For jockeys like Mahamadou Tangara, the closure meant a complete loss of income. On any given Sunday, a jockey can win between $91 and $182 in prize money. No work means no winnings, Tangara said, adding that he felt nothing but difficulty for those eight months of shutdown. The races started up again November 15 — and immediately, the sport’s large, loyal audience returned to the track. Yacouba Dansoko, a sports journalist and race announcer, spoke about the importance of the races to the Malian public, saying that in terms of the audience, it’s No. 1. Soon after the races reopened, COVID-19 cases again rose sharply in Mali. Some jockeys and organizers wear masks, but most of the audience appears indifferent to COVID precautions. Officials are now discussing new COVID-19 countermeasures, which could include shutting down the races.
SOURCE: VOA
More Stories
One of Africa’s Most-celebrated Authors and Playwrights has Died Aged 81
Ethiopian Airliner Accused of Discrimination
What To Do about Khartoum?
Scholars Study the Political Dynamics of West Africa
News App Ensures Nigerians are Informed
Zimbabweans Living in South Africa in Limbo
Uganda’s Pension Market Experiences Significant Growth
The Corner Shop Gets Digitised
Last year, Africa Birthed a lot of Notable Innovations Created by the Younger Generation
Offering Passengers to Seychelles More Travel Options
Tinubu Hits the Ground Running
Russian Minister Makes a Quick Stop in Nairobi