[4]: 261 The Fleuve derives from Sahel-type horses from the Hodh and Kayes regions of modern-day Mauretania and Mali, to the north of Senegal.
[1]: 37–38 In 1996, Senegal had a horse population of about 400,000 head, the largest of any West African country.
It is a well-made horse, with a fine head and slender legs; it is energetic, with lively gaits.
[5]: 37 Horses play an important part in the social and economic life in Senegal.
[5]: 15 It is also used in cross-breeding: a cross between a Fleuve stallion and an M'Bayar mare gives rise to the type called Foutanké.