The foundation "Kyrgyz Ate" is a Kirghiz NGO, created by Jacqueline Ripart in Bishkek (Kirghizstan) in 2004. It develops a vast program which the aims are the safeguard and the rehabilitation of the Kyrgyz horse and of the traditions which are closely attached to him, in the agricultural sector as in that of the culture, the sports, the tourism and the craft industry, within the framework of an economic and social sustainabledevelopment.

Objectives

The rehabilitation of the horse of the kyrgyz type fits not only in the field of the breeding, but also in the fields of the culture, sport, tourismand more particularly of the ecotourism.

The aim pursued in the long term is to give again to the kyrgyz horse a place and a role in the Kirgiz culture and the national economy.

Programs

Breeding: to start again the breeding of the horse of the Kyrgyz type in the regions of high mountain in the Kirghizstan and in Tajikistan, by a technical support for the breeders, the awareness campaigns, the work of promotion, the development of the network of exchanges enters the supply and demand, and the follow-up of an autonomous group of breeders, in charge of the breeding farm of the Kirghiz horse in Pamir.

Sports: tecnical support to the organization of the races on long distance and on mountainous ground; logistic support for the organization of the Kirghiz traditional equestrian games.

Inheritance: integration of the protection of the Kirghiz horse, as genetic and cultural heritage, in the programs which develop the national and international Institutions, whose objectives are into the framework of the protection of the biodiversity and the diversity of the cultures.

Art and Culture: rehabilitation the Kyrgyz horse in the field of the artistic expression, and to instigate the revival of the traditional craft industry (saddlery, weaving, felt, embroideries) by a support to the artists and craftsmen (organization of exhibitions, concerts, poetic contests).

Handicrafts: relaunching of the art of the Kirgiz traditional saddlery, with training courses, technical and financial support for craftsmen.

Ecotourism: technical and promotional support for the associations of guides and for the tourist companies which organize equestrian and pedestrian trekkings with horse of packsaddle.