ILRI Livestock Genetics, Nutrition and Feed Resources theme outputs (2025-)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/169328

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Improving the productivity and resilience of locally adapted ruminant livestock in Africa while reducing methane emissions: Reconnaissance
(Report, 2025-07-15) Sila, Winfred; Oyieng, Edwin P.; Crooijmans, R.; Mukalo, I.; Wandukusi, A.; Ojango, Julie M.K.
A chromosomal level genome assembly of Nguni sheep, Ovis aries
(Journal Article, 2025-07-10) Nesengani, L.T.; Tshilate, T.; Mdyogolo, S.; Smith, R.; Masebe, T.; Raphulu, T.; Moila, A.; Sharaf, A.; Muzemil, S.; Houaga, I.; Muigai, A.; Djikeng, Appolinaire; Kuja, J.; Katee, Sally; Osuji, J.O.; Mungloo-Dilmohamud, Z.; Botes, M.; Mbizeni, S.; Jarvis, E.; Ebenezer, T.E.; Ntanganedzeni, M.
Nguni sheep (Ovis aries) are indigenous to the Southern Africa region and common within the smallholder and poor resources farming systems. They are well adapted to different agroecological regions. However, limited genomic resources such as high-quality reference genomes have hindered our understanding of its adaptation and establishment of an effective breeding program. To address this, we assembled a chromosomal-level genome of Nguni sheep using a combination of PacBio HiFi reads and Omni-C reads. The genome size was estimated to be 2.9 Gb with a contig/scaffold N50 74 Mb and 99.6 Mb and a genome completeness of 96.1%, as estimated by the Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) program. The final genome encompassed a total of 25,926 protein-coding genes. The findings of this study provide a valuable genomic resource for understanding the adaptability of the Nguni sheep and the establishment of effective breeding programs.
Asian Chicken Genetic Gains (AsCGG): Results of on-farm chicken performance comparative testing (OCPT)
(Presentation, 2024-08-13) Ngo Thi Kim Cuc
Asian Chicken Genetic Gains (AsCGG): Results of on-farm chicken performance comparative testing (OCPT)
(Presentation, 2024-12-18) Ngo Thi Kim Cuc
Transforming village poultry: The Asian Chicken Genetic Gains Project in Vietnam
(Video, 2025-07-08) Chi Nguyen; Nguyen Cong Dinh; Ninh Thi Huyen; Tran Trung Thong; Pham Van Son; Ngo Thi Le Quyen; Hoang Hai Hoa; Ngo Thi Kim Cuc
The Asian Chicken Genetic Gains Project is a joint effort that is improving village chicken farming in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. The four-year (2021-2025) ILRI and National Institute of Animal Sciences (NIAS) and other stakeholders' initiative has been working with farmers in Hoa Binh, Ha Nam and Quang Binh to improve access to improved chicken breeds such as Sassoli, Red and Tetra H, and to enhance the productivity of traditional chicken breeds.
Drought-induced cyanogenesis in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.): Genotypic variation in dhurrin biosynthesis and stress response
(Journal Article, 2025) Katamreddy, S.C.; Jose, J.; Reddy, B.P.; Sivasakthi, K.; Sanivarapu, H.; Dube, N.; Gaddameedi, A.; Prasad, Kodukula V.S.V.; Yogendra, K.; Govindaraj, M.; Kholova, J.; Choudhury, S.R.; Kavi Kishor, P.B.; Varijakshapanicker, Padmakumar; Bhatnagar-Mathur, P.; Are, A.K.; Reddy, P.S.
The accumulation of the livestock-harming cyanogenic glucoside dhurrin in the vegetative tissues limits the use of sorghum as a major pasture crop. This study integrates transcriptomics and metabolomics data from the ICSV 93046, CSH 24-MF and ICSR 14001 genotypes, which differ in drought tolerance and cyanide potential (HCNp), to understand the molecular processes of cyanogenesis under drought stress conditions. While ICSV 93046 showed drought adaptation and reduced HCNp, ICSR 14001 and CSH 24-MF exhibited decreased drought stress tolerance with HCN accumulation. The differentially expressed gene (DEG) data showed drought-related genes were significantly upregulated in ICSV 93046 but downregulated in ICSR 14001. KEGG pathway analysis revealed enriched dhurrin biosynthesis and cyanoamino acid metabolism genes, with higher expression in ICSR 14001 than in ICSV 93046. WGCNA analysis revealed that hub genes are involved in drought-induced signalling components, such as phospholipases (PLPs) and lipoxygenases (LOXs), which are implicated in membrane protection. In drought-sensitive genotypes, stress-induced membrane damages lead to the release of dhurrin into the cytoplasm, thus elevating HCN content and activating defence responses. Conversely, the drought-adapted genotype could mitigate HCN production by averting membrane injury, thereby effectively modulating the oxidative stress and preventing the release of dhurrin into the cytoplasm.
Next-generation tools for nutrition-inclusive breeding for cereals
(Book Chapter, 2025-01-23) Choudhary, S.; Anbazhagan, Krithika; Kholova, J.; Murugesan, T.; Kaliamoorthy, S.; Chadalawada, K.; Prasad, Kodukula V.S.V.; Nankar, A.N.; Mani, V.; Chandra, M.; Banoriya, R.; Vadez, V.
Addressing global malnutrition requires improving the nutritional quality of major crops and promoting nutritionally rich crops. However, breeding for improving nutritional traits is challenging, particularly in the absence of rapid and precise phenotyping of these parameters. Quick phenotyping is crucial as it allows breeders to select lines with high nutritional value alongside yield and other important traits while advancing the generations. Traditionally, grain nutritional and quality assessments have relied on wet-lab analytical services, which are slow, costly, and often inaccessible. To overcome these limitations, rapid and cost-effective sensor-based technologies have emerged as a promising solution. Interdisciplinary research combining sensor technology, AI, biochemistry, and crop science has significantly advancing the grain composition analysis, and post-harvest trait evaluation. Tools like near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and computer tomography (CT) are increasingly getting utilized to ensure quality standards in trade, nutrition, and food safety. These technologies focus on key traits precisely, time, and cost-effectively, with early findings highlighting their potential for scalable solutions. Such advancements are essential for nutrition-sensitive breeding and improving food safety, quality-based payments for farmers, and supporting global efforts against malnutrition. The swift adoption of these technologies in breeding programs, supported by public-private partnerships, is crucial for sustainable development.
Navigating COP16’s digital sequence information outcomes: What researchers need to do in practice
(Journal Article, 2025-03-14) Muñoz-García, M.; Bansal, K.C.; Bao, Y.; Brinkley, S.C.; Buzan, E.; Castle, D.; Cepeda-Hernández, M.L.; Correard, S.; Crawford, A.J.; Silva, J.M. da; Silva, M. da; Ekpe, S.; El Fahime, E.; Engelhardt, A.; Faggionato, D.; Haas, A.S.; Hautea, D.M.; Hossaert-McKey, M.; Mazzoni, C.J.; Jaspars, M.; Katee, Sally; Kress, J.; Kwarteng, A.; Lijtmaer, D.A.; Lee, S.; Noriega, I.L.; Lyal, C.; Maharaj, G.; McCartney, A.M.; Miano, D.; Mulema, J.; Oliveira, G.; Omesa, F.O.; Orozco, P.; Overmann, J.; Poetsch, A.; Prat, C.; Raposo, D.S.; Restrepo, S.; Rhoden, F.; Rouard, M.; Serepa-Dlamini, M.H.; Aguilera, M.A.S.; Suzuki, M.; Tiambo, Christian K.; Wiemers, M.; Wong, L.; Yu, E.; Zambrano, M.M.; Zhou, J.; Scholz, A.H.
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity adopted new rules for sharing benefits from publicly available genetic sequence data, also known as digital sequence information (DSI). In this Opinion, the authors describe the key elements researchers need to be aware of, address real-life questions, and explain the practical implications of these rules for research and development.
Pedigree and performance records and maintaining herd books in dairy cattle farming
(Presentation, 2025-05-29) Gebreyohanes, Gebregziabher; Ekine-Dzivenu, Chinyere C.; Ojango, Julie M.K.; Mrode, Raphael A.
Cattle breeding programs and trait preferences in Ethiopia
(Journal Article, 2025-06-09) Seid, M.E.; Kefenie, K.K.; Gebreyohanes, Gebregziabher; Meseret, Selam; Okeyo Mwai, Ally; Negussie, E.
The success of livestock breeding programs depend on the active involvement of smallholder farmers, pastoralists, and agro-pastoralists in shaping breeding objectives and identifying key trait preferences based on specific production goals. This study aimed at assessing the relative importance of cattle-keeping objectives and trait preferences across mixed crop-livestock, pastoral, and agro-pastoral production systems in Ethiopia. We collected data from 180 households 90 from mixed crop livestock, 65from pastoral, and 25 from agro-pastoral systems. The exploded logit statistical model was used and it provided a nuanced understanding of the different cattle-keeping objectives. In mixed crop-livestock systems, draft power and milk production were prioritized, whereas pastoral systems emphasized milk production and calf rearing. Data revealed that agro-pastoral systems demonstrated a more balanced set of preferences, with draft power and milk production being equally important. Trait preferences formal cattle were largely consistent across systems, with traction ability and body size being highly valued, while preferences for other traits, such as coat color and fertility, varied by context. Milk yield was the dominant trait across all production systems. The study outcomes offer crucial insights for the development of balanced breeding programs tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers, pastoralists, and agro-pastoralists, promoting sustainable cattle productivity.
Assessment of the status of artificial insemination and its constraints in East Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
(Journal Article, 2025-02) Gedefa, T.; Kebede, K.; Yusuf, Y.; Gebreyohanes, Gebregziabher
Ethiopia's genetic enhancement efforts have included directly importing exotic cattle from other countries or introducing genes from an external source via artificial insemination (AI) to enhance the breed composition of local cattle. The study aimed to evaluate the status of artificial insemination and identify its constraints in the selected districts of East Arsi Zone, Oromia regional state. The data were collected from 301 farmers and 9 AI technicians (AIT) using semi-structured questionnaires. Five-year secondary data were used from the annual summary of the casebook to evaluate AI status. Data on AI status, satisfaction, breeding method, controlled mating and AI delivery were analyzed using Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) chi- square procedures. Secondary data were analyzed using General Linear Model SAS methods. The ranking coefficient was analyzed using the R software Plackett–Luce model procedure. The study found that 43.52% of participants were dissatisfied with AI services, while 56.48% were satisfied. Furthermore, 72.43% of respondents indicated an increase in AI services, whereas 13.62% reported a decrease and 13.95% no change. The respondents' satisfaction with AI and AI status differed (P<0.05) among districts, but no difference (P>0.05) between the production systems. The secondary data revealed a gradual increase in AI delivery from 2018 to 2022. The average AI delivery was 2281.5±275.6 per year. While AI services did not differ (P > 0.05) across districts, there was a significant (P< 0.05) variation over time. About 55.48% of the districts' dairy producers used AI for breeding. Most respondents (61.79%) received AI from government administrations, while 36.21% received from government and private and only 1.99% obtained it from private suppliers. Breeding methods varied significantly across production systems (P<0.0001), but controlled mating and AI provision were non-significant. The farmers preferred neighbor bulls with estimated coefficients of 2.24 followed by their bulls (1.05) for breeding purposes. The respondents indicated that conception failure (0.72) and poor conception rates (0.56) were the biggest challenges for AI in the study areas. Transportation (2.89) was the main constraint in delivering AI services identified by AITs. Despite these challenges, there has been an increase in the use of AI in study areas over the past five years. Because AI is the only accessible technology for increasing dairy cow performance in the country, it is vital to address these challenges to increase AI utilization in the study regions. Focusing on semen quality is necessary to achieve a high conception rate per service. Supporting commercial AI businesses could improve farmers' access to services.
AI-enabled UAV borne hyperspectral imaging for crop-livestock farm management
(Book Chapter, 2025-03-13) Sankararao, A.U.G.; Rajalakshmi, P.; Choudhary, Sunita; Kholova, Jana; Jones, Christopher S.
Crop-livestock farming plays a crucial role in global agricultural communities by integrating crop production with livestock farming to create a sustainable and diversified farming system. However, this industry has become increasingly scrutinized due to environmental impact, climate change, and land degradation. As per present reports, crop residues, a significant livestock feed resource, are in shortage and have poor nutritional value. Moreover, various factors like heatwaves, drought, and diseases can negatively impact forage quality and reduce productivity. Conventional methods of assessing forage/crop residue quality face significant challenges, including labor-intensive, costly, time-consuming, and error-prone. UAV-based imaging can boost multi-dimensional crop improvement programs due to advantages like wider coverage, short revising times, high spatial resolutions, and ease of operation. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) sensors provide enriched spectral information, enabling more precise investigations into feed quality evaluation, forage management, and livestock health. Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) approaches can effectively analyze high-dimensional HSI data and extract meaningful insights. Integrating UAV-based HSI and AI/ML techniques is crucial to enhance crop-livestock farm management. This chapter explores the potential of UAV-based HSI and AI/ML for crop-livestock farm research and management, focusing on animal and forage health monitoring, and enhancing feed quality. We also emphasize AI/ML-based data analytics and algorithm development on UAV-borne HSI data to revolutionize crop-livestock farming.
Building gender considerations into livestock breeding in low- and middle-income countries
(Journal Article, 2025-06-25) Galiè, Alessandra; Ojango, Julie M.K.; Farnworth, C.R.; Jumba, Humphrey; Roeven, L.; Marshall, Karen
Livestock breeding programs are important in low- and middle-income countries because of the large number of livestock systems that can benefit from improved genetics. Local gender norms and dynamics shape livestock management in households and communities. They influence the ways in which women and men provide inputs, such as labor, finance, time, and knowledge into their livestock systems. They shape the specific needs, preferences, and distribution of the benefits derived from improved genetics. Breeding strategies must consider such gender dynamics to effectively contribute to various livestock systems and ensure that their benefits are equally shared within households and communities. However, the scoping review and key informant interviews conducted in this study revealed a sparse body of knowledge on gender-responsive livestock breeding. The purpose of this study is to develop a framework that can inform gender-responsive livestock breeding programs and, in so doing, develop a comprehensive knowledge base. The framework builds on the following key steps of a breeding program: (i) targeting, (ii) operationalization of the genetic improvement strategy, (iii) marketing and dissemination of genetic material, and (iv) ensuring equitable benefits from improved genetics. In each step, key gender questions are set out to help breeders and gender scientists think through and assemble the gendered information they need. These questions are of two types: gender-accommodative (to respond to gendered needs and priorities while reflecting existing gender norms and dynamics) and gender-transformative (to respond to gendered needs and priorities while allowing women to work towards their aspirations in livestock systems by challenging the discrimination of gender norms). The primary target readership is livestock breeders and social researchers working in low- and middle-income countries to improve livelihoods through livestock, with a focus on genetic improvement.
Genetic analysis of egg production traits in four chicken breeds using a full diallel cross
(Journal Article, 2025-09) Teshome, Philimon; Goshu, G.; Esatu, Wondmeneh; Dessie, Tadelle
In the present study, effects of crossbreeding on egg production traits were evaluated using a 4 × 4 full diallel cross involving four chicken breeds: Improved Horro (H), Sasso (S), Potchefstroom Koekoek (K), and Dz-white feathered (D). The experiment included 800 chickens in a completely randomized design. Data on egg production traits were collected over 40 weeks (WK). Genotypes exhibited significant variations (P < 0.0001) in age at first egg (AFE), body weight at sexual maturity (BWSM), egg weight at first egg (EWAFE), egg number (EN), hen-housed egg production (HHEP), hen-day egg production (HDEP), and egg mass (EM). Heterosis effects (H^e) varied widely, with positive H^e for BWSM and EM in most crosses, while AFE consistently showed negative H^e. All reciprocal crosses showed positive H^e for EWAFE, while direct crosses had negative values except H × S and H × D. The K × H cross showed the highest H^e for HHEP (26.85%), HDEP (29.44%), EM (40.88%), and EN (28.27%). The cross D × H also exhibited strong H^e for HHEP (25.16%) and EN (24.60%), while K × S ranked second for HDEP (22.60%) and EM (33.89%). Reciprocal crosses showed positive H^e for BWSM, EWAFE, HHEP, HDEP, EM, and EN, except AFE. General combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) effects were highly significant (P<0.0001) for all traits. Reciprocal effects (RE) and maternal effects (M^e) also influenced trait expression. GCA/SCA ratios indicated that non-additive effects influenced AFE, while additive effects influenced EWAFE. Moderate ratios for HHEP, HDEP, EM, and EN suggested a balance between additive and non-additive effects. Optimizing crossbreeding strategies, aligning with synthetic breed development, using a K sire with H and S dams, and a D sire with H dam, is recommended to improve egg production.
Nutriomics-specific chromatogram of aromatic herbs to mitigate methane emission through in vitro ruminal fermentation
(Journal Article, 2025-10-15) Ahmed, S.; Wu, J.; Liu, Z.; Jiang, A.; Pu, X.; Zhou, C.; Lukuyu, Ben A.; Kang, J.; Tan, Z.
Methane is considered as a potent greenhouse gas, emitted from ruminants through enteric fermentation. Several methane mitigation strategies have been proposed and reported, however, role of aromatic herbs and their bioactive components on elimination of methane is still unclear. Mint (Mentha canadensis L.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), eupatorium (Eupatorium fortunei Turcz.) and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) were selected for two separate in vitro fermentation, at first as substrates and then additives with TMR (control) at the level of 1% and 3%, and assessed in terms of conventional nutrients, fermentation characteristics, metabolomics and microbial diversity. The experiment was conducted by a completely randomized block design, which included three runs with each treatment, whereas treatments are considered fixed effects and runs as a random effect. Turmeric contained more CP and less NDF, ADF showed higher IVDMD (g/kg), total VFA (mM) but produced less CH4 (ml/g) both as substrates or additives. Eupatorium produced more H2 (ml/g) and CH4 (ml/g), contained less propionate content (P<0.05). Flavone, succinate, 2-hydroxycinnamic acid were the common metabolites present in all four herbs. Lachnospiraceae, Prevotellaceae, Succinivibrionaceae, Oscillospiraceae and Selenomonadaceae were most dominant families. Succinivibrionaceae in turmeric-treated rumen fluid, used H2 to produce propionate, thus, amount of H2 available for methanogenesis is decreased, capacitated this herb to reduce more methane than other herbs. Overall, 3% inclusion of turmeric with TMR is best both in terms of dry matter degradation and methane mitigation potentiality.
Transforming the traditional subsistence-based smallholder poultry production system to a commercial-oriented and sustainable production system in the Global South: Tropical Poultry Genetic Solutions (TPGS) experience
(Abstract, 2025-03-12) Dessie, Tadelle
Subsistence-driven, low-input, and low-output production systems predominantly characterize developing countries’ smallholder poultry production in the Global South. Farmers usually keep very few indigenous/local poultry species, usually less than 50, with limited supplementary feeds and poor health and biosecurity practices. Producers primarily focus on producing eggs and meat for home consumption or selling surplus products to generate marginal incomes. Farmers usually sell surplus products directly to local consumers or through local markets or vendors. Transitioning these systems towards market orientation and enhanced productivity demands context-specific and integrated approaches that address key challenges and improve the competitiveness of the value chain. As part of this effort, since 2014, ILRI has been implementing various interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. The critical intervention includes identifying, sourcing, testing, and evaluating the performance of tropically adapted improved breeds; value chain development, including developing context-specific business models for multiplication and delivery of farmer-preferred breeds and allied inputs; promoting informed consumption of poultry products; indigenous breed improvement; and promoting platforms and policies. ILRI has sourced, tested, and evaluated more than 21 different tropically adapted improved chicken breeds in 7 countries and has been running more than 4 breed improvement programs in different countries. Some of the tested chickens’ breeds showed significant productivity gains (200-300% in body weight and 160-200% in eggs) compared with existing household chickens. Farmers showed a higher preference for introduced breeds (more than 90%) over existing chickens. The approach adopted by ILRI led to a significant reduction in chicken morality and the creation of additional jobs along the value chain. Unlike traditional production practices, farmers could access any number of chicks for either eggs or meat production based on market demand. Preliminary assessments indicate that the integrated interventions led to the broader adoption of introduced farmer- preferred chicken breeds and significant economic and social gains from adopting these breeds.
Training on genetic and genomic approaches for livestock improvement
(Report, 2025-05-30) Ekine-Dzivenu, Chinyere C.; Mrode, Raphael A.; Houaga, I.; Rochus, C.; Mekuriaw, Getinet; Meikle, J.; Chagunda, M.
Integrating Local and Indigenous Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (LIAnGRFA) into global biodiversity governance: A technical policy brief for the Convention on Biological Diversity
(Brief, 2025-05-30) Tiambo, Christian K.; Katee, Sally M.; Mugo, Cynthia
The conservation and sustainable use of Local and Indigenous Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (LIAnGRFA) are critical to biodiversity conservation, food security, climate resilience, and rural livelihoods. These livestock breeds – shaped over centuries through natural selection and traditional knowledge – possess unique traits such as disease resistance, heat tolerance, and efficient feed conversion, which makes them vital for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem health. This paper examines existing policy gaps, inconsistencies in international governance frameworks, and financial barriers limiting the conservation and sustainable use of LIAnGRFA. It provides actionable policy recommendations to integrate LIAnGRFA into the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD), National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), and financial mechanisms such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and Green Climate Fund (GCF).
Monograph on indigenous chicken breeds/ecotypes in Vietnam
(Report, 2025-05-30) Ngo Thi Kim Cuc; Esatu, Wondmeneh; Hoang Hai Hoa; Vu Chi Thien; Nguyen Cong Dinh; Ninh Thi Huyen; Tran Trung Thong; Pham Van Son; Ngo Thi Le Quyen; Unger, Fred; Dessie, Tadelle
Since mid-2021, the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) has partnered with the National Institute of Animal Sciences (NIAS) of Vietnam to conduct research on tropically adapted and high-performance chicken strains under both on-station and on-farm conditions in Vietnam. This collaboration is part of a larger initiative known as the Asian Chicken Genetic Gain (AsCGG) project, which is funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and is still ongoing. The project’s overarching goal is to provide smallholder poultry producers in Vietnam with improved chicken breeds better adapted to the tropical climate, thereby increasing their productivity and sustainability. Vietnam is home to a large genetic diversity of indigenous chickens that are well adapted to its various geographical locations. Indigenous chicken genetic improvement programs in the country have yielded promising results but need to emphasize the maintenance and sustainable use of this genetic diversity. This monograph is an output of the AsCGG project. It describes the Vietnamese indigenous chickens’ phenotypic and genetic characteristics, genetic attributes related to egg and meat production, adaptability of promising chicken ecotypes and their socio-economic contributions. This monograph can be used by researchers, breeders, PhD and master students, NGOs and other practitioners involved in supporting chicken genetic improvement for farmers in the chicken value chain and other actors. This monograph is expected to contribute to capacity building along the value chain, leading to improved chicken genetics. This will enable farmers to transition from backyard or semi-intensive farming to more intensive, market-oriented production, enhancing production, food security and livelihoods while benefiting the wider community and countries involved.
Monograph on indigenous chicken ecotypes in Cambodia
(Report, 2025-05-30) Esatu, Wondmeneh; Phem, M.; Hoa Hoang; Ty, C.; Tum, S.; Unger, Fred; Dessie, Tadelle
This monograph describes the Cambodian indigenous chickens phenotypic and genetic characteristics, genetic attributes related to egg and meat production, adaptability of promising chicken ecotypes and their socioeconomic contribution. Cambodia is home to a large genetic diversity of indigenous chickens that are well adapted to its various geographical locations. Indigenous chicken genetic improvement programs in the country have yielded promising results but need to emphasize the maintenance and sustainable use of this genetic diversity. This monograph is an output of the Asian Chicken Genetic Gains (AsCGG) project. It describes the Cambodian indigenous chickens’ phenotypic and genetic characteristics, genetic attributes related to egg and meat production, adaptability of promising chicken ecotypes and their socio-economic contributions. This monograph can be used by researchers, breeders, PhD and master students, NGOs and other practitioners involved in supporting chicken genetic improvement for farmers in the chicken value chain and other actors. This monograph is expected to contribute to capacity building along the value chain, leading to improved chicken genetics. This will enable farmers to transition from backyard or semi-intensive farming to more intensive, market-oriented production, enhancing production, food security and livelihoods while benefiting the wider community and countries involved.

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