Finding suitable parking for our heavy expedition truck in Bulawayo wasn’t easy. Fortunately, we found a safe place next to the MARES (Matabeleland Animal Rescue and Equine Sanctuary) rehabilitation centre. It also allowed us to meet the inspiring founder, Claire Einhorn, who has dedicated her life to protecting some of Zimbabwe’s most vulnerable animals.
MARES is Zimbabwe’s only dedicated equine rescue and rehabilitation centre. Originally established as Matabeleland Horse Rescue in the early 2000s, the organisation expanded its mission in 2018 to include donkeys after playing a key role in helping shut down a local donkey abattoir. Today, the sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates, and provides lifelong care for abandoned, abused, neglected, and injured horses and donkeys, giving many of them a second chance at life.
One of MARES’ most important initiatives is its Humane Harness Program. Through regular outreach clinics in rural communities, the team replaces old, poorly fitting harnesses with custom-made, padded harnesses that greatly reduce injuries and improve the welfare of working donkeys. These animals are essential for transporting water, firewood, crops, and supplies, making them indispensable to many families’ livelihoods.
Equines that are too badly injured or traumatised to return to work are cared for permanently at the sanctuary or, whenever possible, rehomed into loving families. Beyond equine welfare, MARES works closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, ZimParks, and the Bulawayo City Council on animal welfare issues, while also supporting spay-and-neuter campaigns for dogs and cats and promoting responsible animal ownership throughout the region.
Organisations like MARES rely heavily on donations, volunteers, and public support to continue their vital work. If you would like to learn more, follow their rescue stories, support their outreach programmes, or make a contribution, you can visit the MARES Rescue & Rehabilitation Facebook page or contact Claire directly on 📞+263712214541.
As travellers, readers, and global citizens, we are reminded that even the smallest act of kindness can make a life-changing difference. By supporting organisations like MARES, we can help ensure that Zimbabwe’s working animals receive the care, dignity, and compassion they deserve.
Parking location – Bulawayo: 20.1728888S 28.6013312E (🚻,🚿,💦,🅿️10 USD)