Field Notes · Issue — July 2026
A quiet moment in the paddocks, Oumnass, Morocco.
From the refuge
A new front door for Jarjeer
Since 2014, Jarjeer has been a home, a hospice and a reserve for the working horses, mules and donkeys of Morocco. This month we’ve launched a new website — the best way yet to see that work up close. Here’s what’s happening on the ground right now, and a few updates from the team.
Right now at the refuge
39 donkeys, waiting to rejoin the herd
Thirty-nine male donkeys at Jarjeer are waiting to be castrated. Until that happens they can’t safely join the main herd, so for now they live apart — split across two paddocks. One holds the older, stronger and more assertive males; the other holds the younger donkeys and the frailer, elderly ones who need calmer company. Both paddocks exist only because these donkeys haven’t had the procedure yet.
Ten of the 39 need it urgently. Funding just those ten — £1,000 — lets us close one of the two paddocks straight away and free up that space. The full total, £3,900, covers all 39 and means every donkey currently kept apart can finally rejoin the herd.
What’s new
A new website, and a couple of other updates
Jarjeer has a new home online
After years on an old platform, Jarjeer’s website has moved to jarjeer.org — rebuilt from scratch, mobile-friendly, and easier than ever to donate or plan a visit.
Catch up with Sue on The Donkey Barrister
Co-founder Sue posts regular updates from the refuge on YouTube — go subscribe and watch if you haven’t already.
A new way to gift a donation
Send a personalised gift certificate in someone’s honour — birthdays, Christmas, or in memory of a loved one.
How we got here
How Jarjeer grew
A humane project based on care and compassion in the Kingdom — every animal that comes to us is assessed, treated and given a permanent home in our paddocks for as long as it needs one.
Jarjeer is founded
Our sanctuary opens near Marrakech with a simple mission: care and compassion for the working horses, mules and donkeys of the Kingdom.
A pivotal year of growth
Expanded stables, separate paddocks for injured animals and an upgraded on-site clinic transform the level of care we can provide.
Homes from every corner
With growing support both nationally and internationally, we create homes for horses, mules and donkeys from all corners of the Kingdom.
In their words
“An oasis of kindness and care that puts your feet back on the ground and reminds you about that which really matters. We’re all on this boat together and rowing is not optional. Pass me an oar!”
Dorine Kunst, Italy
Be part of the story
Every gift, monthly or one-off, goes straight to feed, shelter and veterinary care in the paddock.
How it all began
From one donkey to a refuge
Founders Susan Machin and her husband Charles Hantom were both practising lawyers in the UK. After retiring to Morocco, they adopted an orphaned donkey named Tommy — within a few years they had twelve. Rather than keep them as pets, Susan made the decision that became Jarjeer: to found a proper charity, and give Morocco’s working animals the retirement they deserve.