https://hdl.handle.net/10568/1From ILRI staff and projectsWed, 10 Jun 2026 23:23:37 GMT2026-06-10T23:23:37Z255881https://cgspace.cgiar.org/bitstreams/9f97aa30-76b2-4ec2-a8ad-12d91b05da3e/downloadhttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183261dc.title: LiveSys Sustainable Livestock Engagement and Advocacy Strategy 2026 dc.contributor.author: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit; African Union Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources; International Livestock Research Institute dcterms.abstract: This strategy outlines a coordinated framework for advancing sustainable livestock systems through collective engagement and advocacy in 2026. Developed under the LiveSys initiative, the document identifies priority thematic areas including sustainable rangeland restoration, climate-resilient livestock systems, climate finance, and One Health approaches for disease control and methane mitigation. It further maps key global and regional engagement platforms, strategic stakeholders, and shared calls to action aimed at strengthening policy recognition, investment mobilization, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive livelihoods within livestock systems, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832612026-02-15T00:00:00ZDeutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale ZusammenarbeitAfrican Union Interafrican Bureau for Animal ResourcesInternational Livestock Research InstituteThis strategy outlines a coordinated framework for advancing sustainable livestock systems through collective engagement and advocacy in 2026. Developed under the LiveSys initiative, the document identifies priority thematic areas including sustainable rangeland restoration, climate-resilient livestock systems, climate finance, and One Health approaches for disease control and methane mitigation. It further maps key global and regional engagement platforms, strategic stakeholders, and shared calls to action aimed at strengthening policy recognition, investment mobilization, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive livelihoods within livestock systems, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183260dc.title: Seroincidence of Brucella spp. infection among humans and livestock in Northern Kenya dc.contributor.author: Mwatondo, Athman; Muturi, Mathew; Akoko, James M.; Nyamota, Richard; Nthiwa, D.; Gichuhi, S.; Mureithi, M.W.; Bett, Bernard K. dcterms.abstract: Brucellosis is one of the most widespread zoonoses globally. The disease is associated with significant human illnesses and livestock production losses, particularly among pastoralist communities. Despite its recognition as a significant zoonotic disease, reliable estimates of the health burden of brucellosis in humans and animals are limited. This study aimed to determine the annual seroincidence of Brucella spp. in humans and animals in a pastoralist community and to explore risk factors associated with exposure. We conducted a one-year, household-based longitudinal study in Isiolo County, northern Kenya. Households within a 20 km radius of Kinna town were eligible for enrollment if they owned at least one livestock species (cattle, goats, or sheep). All consenting humans and five animals per species were included. Quarterly blood sampling was performed, and Brucella immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on potential risk factors for human and animal exposures. An incident case was defined as any human or animal that seroconverted during follow-up. Counts of incident cases were used to estimate exact incidence rates, with human- and animal-years at risk serving as the denominators. The data were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model, which allowed for type I right censoring. Crude and adjusted hazard rate ratios were estimated using univariable and multivariable models. The study enrolled 814 individuals (median age, 21.5 years; range, 2-90 years). A total of 1938 animals were recruited, comprising 687 cattle (35.5%), 622 sheep (32.1%), and 629 goats (32.4%). We identified 25 human incident cases over 435 person-years, resulting in an incidence rate of 0.057 (95% CI 0.035-0.080). The standard multivariable Cox regression analysis (with right censoring) revealed significant associations with age (p = 0.005), placenta removal (p = 0.031), and the occurrence of an incident case in livestock (p = 0.026). We identified 22 animal incidents across 1143 animal years, yielding an annual incidence of 0.019 cases per year (95% CI 0.011-0.027). Incidence was higher among younger animals and goats. The population-based incidence of Brucella spp. in humans and livestock indicates active transmission in this pastoralist community. Age, placenta removal, and household livestock infection were independently associated with human seroconversion, while goats and younger animals had significantly higher exposure rates than other livestock species and older animals, respectively. This highlights the human-livestock interface as a key pathway for transmission. Future studies should investigate the link between seroconversion and active infection in humans and livestock. Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832602026-05-24T00:00:00ZMwatondo, AthmanMuturi, MathewAkoko, James M.Nyamota, RichardNthiwa, D.Gichuhi, S.Mureithi, M.W.Bett, Bernard K.Brucellosis is one of the most widespread zoonoses globally. The disease is associated with significant human illnesses and livestock production losses, particularly among pastoralist communities. Despite its recognition as a significant zoonotic disease, reliable estimates of the health burden of brucellosis in humans and animals are limited. This study aimed to determine the annual seroincidence of Brucella spp. in humans and animals in a pastoralist community and to explore risk factors associated with exposure. We conducted a one-year, household-based longitudinal study in Isiolo County, northern Kenya. Households within a 20 km radius of Kinna town were eligible for enrollment if they owned at least one livestock species (cattle, goats, or sheep). All consenting humans and five animals per species were included. Quarterly blood sampling was performed, and Brucella immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on potential risk factors for human and animal exposures. An incident case was defined as any human or animal that seroconverted during follow-up. Counts of incident cases were used to estimate exact incidence rates, with human- and animal-years at risk serving as the denominators. The data were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model, which allowed for type I right censoring. Crude and adjusted hazard rate ratios were estimated using univariable and multivariable models. The study enrolled 814 individuals (median age, 21.5 years; range, 2-90 years). A total of 1938 animals were recruited, comprising 687 cattle (35.5%), 622 sheep (32.1%), and 629 goats (32.4%). We identified 25 human incident cases over 435 person-years, resulting in an incidence rate of 0.057 (95% CI 0.035-0.080). The standard multivariable Cox regression analysis (with right censoring) revealed significant associations with age (p = 0.005), placenta removal (p = 0.031), and the occurrence of an incident case in livestock (p = 0.026). We identified 22 animal incidents across 1143 animal years, yielding an annual incidence of 0.019 cases per year (95% CI 0.011-0.027). Incidence was higher among younger animals and goats. The population-based incidence of Brucella spp. in humans and livestock indicates active transmission in this pastoralist community. Age, placenta removal, and household livestock infection were independently associated with human seroconversion, while goats and younger animals had significantly higher exposure rates than other livestock species and older animals, respectively. This highlights the human-livestock interface as a key pathway for transmission. Future studies should investigate the link between seroconversion and active infection in humans and livestock.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183257dc.title: Effects of GABA-enriched alfalfa silage on rumen microbiota, lactation hormones, immunity, and mammary gland gene expression, alongside lactation performance in dairy goats dc.contributor.author: Usman, S.; Jiayao Zhang; Qiang Li; Sheoran, N.; Jing Ma; Dongmei Xu; Kalla, D.J.U.; Amole, Tunde A.; Xusheng Guo dcterms.abstract: Background: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) influences metabolic homeostasis, immune function, and lactation performance. Typically, GABA is administered exogenously, but this approach is limited by intake variability and cost. Alternatively, silage inoculated with high GABA-producing Lentilactobacillus buchneri YM9 enriches the silage with GABA and ensures more uniform dietary delivery. However, the effects of silage-based GABA enrichment and delivery on ruminant performance, immunity, and health remain unclear. Hence, we conducted a feeding trial with 36 dairy goats assigned to three TMR treatments containing alfalfa silage: 1) CK (uninoculated control), 2) AH35 (inoculated with non–GABA-producing Lent. buchneri AH35), and 3) YM9 (inoculated with GABA-producing Lent. buchneri YM9). Feed intake and lactation performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota, blood GABA and lactation hormones, blood cytokines and interleukins as well as milk GABA and mammary gland gene expression were evaluated. Results YM9-fed goats had lower DMI (1.66 kg/d) compared with CK (1.84 kg/d) and AH35 (1.84 kg/d) but maintained milk yield comparable to CK and higher than AH35 (P < 0.05). GABA intake, and milk yield, fat, protein, lactose, total solids, and total nitrogen per kilogram DMI were higher in YM9 (P < 0.05). Milk GABA was greater in YM9 (152 μmol/L) than CK (114 μmol/L) and AH35 (111 μmol/L) (P < 0.01). Serum GABA (1.44 μmol/L), prolactin (7.65 ng/mL), and oxytocin (4.75 pg/mL) were elevated in YM9 (P < 0.05). Immunoglobulins were higher in AH35 overall, but YM9 exceeded CK (P < 0.05), with cytokine profiles in the YM9 group reflecting moderate pro-inflammatory activation. YM9 upregulated GSR and downregulated NOX4, TNF, and IFNG (P < 0.05). Microbiota analysis showed comparable alpha diversity between YM9 and CK with Prevotella dominance in the YM9 group, and significant correlations among GABA, microbial taxa, hormones, and mammary gland genes. Conclusion Feeding dairy goats with GABA-enriched silage was associated with improved feed and lactation efficiency. It also enhanced lactation hormones, immune responses, and expression of antioxidant-related gene alongside reduced inflammatory related genes. These findings provide alternative approach for dietary GABA delivery to ruminants for enhanced productivity and health, although further studies are required to verify the mechanisms. Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832572026-05-27T00:00:00ZUsman, S.Jiayao ZhangQiang LiSheoran, N.Jing MaDongmei XuKalla, D.J.U.Amole, Tunde A.Xusheng GuoBackground: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) influences metabolic homeostasis, immune function, and lactation performance. Typically, GABA is administered exogenously, but this approach is limited by intake variability and cost. Alternatively, silage inoculated with high GABA-producing Lentilactobacillus buchneri YM9 enriches the silage with GABA and ensures more uniform dietary delivery. However, the effects of silage-based GABA enrichment and delivery on ruminant performance, immunity, and health remain unclear. Hence, we conducted a feeding trial with 36 dairy goats assigned to three TMR treatments containing alfalfa silage: 1) CK (uninoculated control), 2) AH35 (inoculated with non–GABA-producing Lent. buchneri AH35), and 3) YM9 (inoculated with GABA-producing Lent. buchneri YM9). Feed intake and lactation performance, rumen fermentation and microbiota, blood GABA and lactation hormones, blood cytokines and interleukins as well as milk GABA and mammary gland gene expression were evaluated. Results YM9-fed goats had lower DMI (1.66 kg/d) compared with CK (1.84 kg/d) and AH35 (1.84 kg/d) but maintained milk yield comparable to CK and higher than AH35 (P < 0.05). GABA intake, and milk yield, fat, protein, lactose, total solids, and total nitrogen per kilogram DMI were higher in YM9 (P < 0.05). Milk GABA was greater in YM9 (152 μmol/L) than CK (114 μmol/L) and AH35 (111 μmol/L) (P < 0.01). Serum GABA (1.44 μmol/L), prolactin (7.65 ng/mL), and oxytocin (4.75 pg/mL) were elevated in YM9 (P < 0.05). Immunoglobulins were higher in AH35 overall, but YM9 exceeded CK (P < 0.05), with cytokine profiles in the YM9 group reflecting moderate pro-inflammatory activation. YM9 upregulated GSR and downregulated NOX4, TNF, and IFNG (P < 0.05). Microbiota analysis showed comparable alpha diversity between YM9 and CK with Prevotella dominance in the YM9 group, and significant correlations among GABA, microbial taxa, hormones, and mammary gland genes. Conclusion Feeding dairy goats with GABA-enriched silage was associated with improved feed and lactation efficiency. It also enhanced lactation hormones, immune responses, and expression of antioxidant-related gene alongside reduced inflammatory related genes. These findings provide alternative approach for dietary GABA delivery to ruminants for enhanced productivity and health, although further studies are required to verify the mechanisms.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183256dc.title: Regional Structuring of Aedes Aegypti Maternal Lineages and Detection of Insect-Specific Flaviviruses in Kenya dc.contributor.author: Kwasi, A.B.; Chelikani, V.P.; Sifuna, M.; Kiio, L.K.; Mutisya, J.; Mulwa, F.; Owaka, S.; Lutomiah, J.; Ogugo, Moses; Kemp, Stephen J.; Kramer, L.D.; Onyango, M.G. dcterms.abstract: Dengue virus (DENV) is an expanding global health threat, yet its ecological and entomological drivers remain poorly defined in sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya, recurrent outbreaks along the coastal region contrast sharply with the persistent absence of outbreaks in ecologically suitable western Kenya. Understanding the spatial heterogeneity of vector populations, viral circulation, and ecological context is essential for identifying under-recognized determinants of dengue emergence. We conducted a comparative entomological and virological survey across outbreak-prone coastal Kenya and the low-outbreak but dengue-reporting region of western Kenya. Mosquito community composition and blood-feeding patterns were quantified. Ae. aegypti populations were genetically profiled using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) haplotypes. Although proportional Ae. aegypti abundance was lower along the coast, three insect-specific flavivirus (ISFV)-positive mosquitoes-including two males-were detected in this region, indicating localized circulation and probable vertical transmission. No DENV-positive mosquitoes were detected in either region despite higher adult Ae. aegypti abundance in western Kenya. COI haplotyping revealed a shallow but structured mosaic of maternal lineages among the sampled Kenyan regions, with private coastal haplotypes and elevated diversity in Busia, suggesting distinct evolutionary histories and limited but ongoing gene flow. Kenyan ISFVs clustered within a globally distributed Ae. aegypti-associated lineage. The exclusive detection of ISFVs during peak mosquito activity underscores the complexity of Kenya's vector-virus ecology and highlights the ability of coastal Ae. aegypti to sustain vertically transmitted viruses. These findings support the need for region-specific, ecology-informed surveillance frameworks integrating vector genetics, virome composition, and environmental context to better anticipate dengue emergence in Africa. Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832562026-05-28T00:00:00ZKwasi, A.B.Chelikani, V.P.Sifuna, M.Kiio, L.K.Mutisya, J.Mulwa, F.Owaka, S.Lutomiah, J.Ogugo, MosesKemp, Stephen J.Kramer, L.D.Onyango, M.G.Dengue virus (DENV) is an expanding global health threat, yet its ecological and entomological drivers remain poorly defined in sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya, recurrent outbreaks along the coastal region contrast sharply with the persistent absence of outbreaks in ecologically suitable western Kenya. Understanding the spatial heterogeneity of vector populations, viral circulation, and ecological context is essential for identifying under-recognized determinants of dengue emergence. We conducted a comparative entomological and virological survey across outbreak-prone coastal Kenya and the low-outbreak but dengue-reporting region of western Kenya. Mosquito community composition and blood-feeding patterns were quantified. Ae. aegypti populations were genetically profiled using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) haplotypes. Although proportional Ae. aegypti abundance was lower along the coast, three insect-specific flavivirus (ISFV)-positive mosquitoes-including two males-were detected in this region, indicating localized circulation and probable vertical transmission. No DENV-positive mosquitoes were detected in either region despite higher adult Ae. aegypti abundance in western Kenya. COI haplotyping revealed a shallow but structured mosaic of maternal lineages among the sampled Kenyan regions, with private coastal haplotypes and elevated diversity in Busia, suggesting distinct evolutionary histories and limited but ongoing gene flow. Kenyan ISFVs clustered within a globally distributed Ae. aegypti-associated lineage. The exclusive detection of ISFVs during peak mosquito activity underscores the complexity of Kenya's vector-virus ecology and highlights the ability of coastal Ae. aegypti to sustain vertically transmitted viruses. These findings support the need for region-specific, ecology-informed surveillance frameworks integrating vector genetics, virome composition, and environmental context to better anticipate dengue emergence in Africa.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183254dc.title: Immunogenicity of Theileria parva p67C Antigen Delivered via Adjuvanted CoPoP Liposomes in Cattle and Mice dc.contributor.author: Oboge, Harriet; Huang, W.C.; Aboge, G.; Chege, Hannah; Ojuok, Rose; Chege, Naomi; Musando, J.; Poole, E.J.; Thumbi, S.M.; Nene, Vishvanath M.; Lovell, J.F.; Lacasta, Anna dcterms.abstract: Background: Effective vaccines are essential to overcome the limitations of livestock immunisation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where scalable, thermostable, and easy-to-administer solutions are needed. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as the Spontaneous Nanoliposome Antigen Particle (SNAP) technology using CoPoP liposomes, offer a promising alternative for subunit vaccine development, although their performance in large animal species remains poorly characterised. CoPoP enables the rapid non-covalent multimeric display of His-tagged protein antigens combined with immunomodulators on liposomes incorporating cobalt porphyrin–phospholipid (CoPoP). Objective: To evaluate the immunogenicity of CoPoP-based liposomes delivering the Theileria parva p67C antigen in cattle and compare their performance in murine models. Methods: Cattle and mice were immunised with p67C formulated in CoPoP liposomes incorporating QS-21 and/or PHAD immunomodulators. Humoral and cellular responses were assessed. Parallel in vitro stimulation of bovine PBMC with Quil-A was used to investigate the mechanistic effects of saponins on bovine cells. Results: CoPoP liposome formulations did not improve p67C immunogenicity in cattle, with antibody responses at least two-fold lower than previously reported results and no detectable cellular responses. In contrast, the same platform induced up to 2000-fold higher antibody titres in mice. This disparity is likely driven by differences in antigen dose relative to body mass, tissue architecture, lymphatic accessibility, and innate immune signalling differences. PHAD-mediated TLR4 activation appeared less effective in cattle, whereas QS-21 induced a broader immune activation, likely through conserved inflammasome pathways. Despite limited immunogenicity, antigen presentation by CoPoP liposomes was preserved. Conclusions: SNAP-based CoPoP liposomes showed strong immunogenicity in mice but limited efficacy in cattle, highlighting the challenges of cross-species translation. Optimisation of antigen dose and adjuvant selection for the targeted species is required, with QS-21 representing a more promising candidate than the TLR4 agonist. The scalability and versatility of SNAP technology support its continued development for multivalent livestock vaccines. cg.contributor.initiative: Sustainable Animal Productivity Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832542026-05-20T00:00:00ZOboge, HarrietHuang, W.C.Aboge, G.Chege, HannahOjuok, RoseChege, NaomiMusando, J.Poole, E.J.Thumbi, S.M.Nene, Vishvanath M.Lovell, J.F.Lacasta, AnnaBackground: Effective vaccines are essential to overcome the limitations of livestock immunisation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where scalable, thermostable, and easy-to-administer solutions are needed. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as the Spontaneous Nanoliposome Antigen Particle (SNAP) technology using CoPoP liposomes, offer a promising alternative for subunit vaccine development, although their performance in large animal species remains poorly characterised. CoPoP enables the rapid non-covalent multimeric display of His-tagged protein antigens combined with immunomodulators on liposomes incorporating cobalt porphyrin–phospholipid (CoPoP). Objective: To evaluate the immunogenicity of CoPoP-based liposomes delivering the Theileria parva p67C antigen in cattle and compare their performance in murine models. Methods: Cattle and mice were immunised with p67C formulated in CoPoP liposomes incorporating QS-21 and/or PHAD immunomodulators. Humoral and cellular responses were assessed. Parallel in vitro stimulation of bovine PBMC with Quil-A was used to investigate the mechanistic effects of saponins on bovine cells. Results: CoPoP liposome formulations did not improve p67C immunogenicity in cattle, with antibody responses at least two-fold lower than previously reported results and no detectable cellular responses. In contrast, the same platform induced up to 2000-fold higher antibody titres in mice. This disparity is likely driven by differences in antigen dose relative to body mass, tissue architecture, lymphatic accessibility, and innate immune signalling differences. PHAD-mediated TLR4 activation appeared less effective in cattle, whereas QS-21 induced a broader immune activation, likely through conserved inflammasome pathways. Despite limited immunogenicity, antigen presentation by CoPoP liposomes was preserved. Conclusions: SNAP-based CoPoP liposomes showed strong immunogenicity in mice but limited efficacy in cattle, highlighting the challenges of cross-species translation. Optimisation of antigen dose and adjuvant selection for the targeted species is required, with QS-21 representing a more promising candidate than the TLR4 agonist. The scalability and versatility of SNAP technology support its continued development for multivalent livestock vaccines.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183231dc.title: Testing a framework for detecting influences of local pastoralist institutions on rangeland condition dc.contributor.author: Sircely, Jason A.; Oloo, Stephen O.; Robinson, Lance W. dcterms.abstract: Local rangeland management institutions, livestock keepers, and their local knowledge are increasingly recognized for their roles in land stewardship, including in pastoralist rangelands. To test a framework for detecting impacts of community-based rangeland management in 10 rangelands in East Africa, we used three remote sensing indicators—bare soil cover, vegetation greenness, and rainfall use efficiency—to investigate long-term (up to 17 yr) changes in rangeland condition alongside contemporaneous shifts in local management institutions supported with capacity building on rangeland management. Rangeland condition changes were quantified in terms of absolute change, and change relative to neighboring reference rangelands. In 9 of 10 rangelands, rangeland condition indicators remained mostly stable or improved in absolute terms. Annual net absolute declines in bare soil cover averaged 0.43 km2 · 1,000 km−2 · yr−1, 95% confidence interval [–4.67, 3.80], for an average of 303.7 ha [–2,139, 1531] per rangeland annually. Relative to reference rangelands, bare soil declined by 0.82 [–7.48, 5.85] km2 · 1,000 km−2 · yr−1, or 470.3 [–3,485, 2,544] ha · rangeland−1 · yr−1 on average, and in 5 of 10 rangelands decreased more than in references. Greenness generally increased and was often negatively correlated with decreases in bare soil, while rainfall use efficiency varied widely. Comparison with reference sites indicated that stability or gains in rangeland condition appeared at least partly attributable to improvement in the capacity of local rangeland management institutions and the use of local or traditional management practice. These changes occurred notwithstanding strong climate impacts among other drivers, indicating that local pastoralist institutions may capably lead and deliver on regenerative rangeland management. cg.contributor.initiative: Livestock and Climate Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832312026-05-30T00:00:00ZSircely, Jason A.Oloo, Stephen O.Robinson, Lance W.Local rangeland management institutions, livestock keepers, and their local knowledge are increasingly recognized for their roles in land stewardship, including in pastoralist rangelands. To test a framework for detecting impacts of community-based rangeland management in 10 rangelands in East Africa, we used three remote sensing indicators—bare soil cover, vegetation greenness, and rainfall use efficiency—to investigate long-term (up to 17 yr) changes in rangeland condition alongside contemporaneous shifts in local management institutions supported with capacity building on rangeland management. Rangeland condition changes were quantified in terms of absolute change, and change relative to neighboring reference rangelands. In 9 of 10 rangelands, rangeland condition indicators remained mostly stable or improved in absolute terms. Annual net absolute declines in bare soil cover averaged 0.43 km2 · 1,000 km−2 · yr−1, 95% confidence interval [–4.67, 3.80], for an average of 303.7 ha [–2,139, 1531] per rangeland annually. Relative to reference rangelands, bare soil declined by 0.82 [–7.48, 5.85] km2 · 1,000 km−2 · yr−1, or 470.3 [–3,485, 2,544] ha · rangeland−1 · yr−1 on average, and in 5 of 10 rangelands decreased more than in references. Greenness generally increased and was often negatively correlated with decreases in bare soil, while rainfall use efficiency varied widely. Comparison with reference sites indicated that stability or gains in rangeland condition appeared at least partly attributable to improvement in the capacity of local rangeland management institutions and the use of local or traditional management practice. These changes occurred notwithstanding strong climate impacts among other drivers, indicating that local pastoralist institutions may capably lead and deliver on regenerative rangeland management.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183228dc.title: Training of trainers on developing effective continuing professional development for veterinary personnel dc.contributor.author: Lemma, Mamusha; Ayledo, G.; Knight-Jones, Theodore J.D. Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1832282026-05-30T00:00:00ZLemma, MamushaAyledo, G.Knight-Jones, Theodore J.D.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183191dc.title: Investigating the bovine milk value chain of Hyderabad, India, with a focus on child stunting dc.contributor.author: Häsler, Barbara; Ramachandrappa, N.K.; Rotta, S.; Konapur, A.; Ravichandran, T.; Dominguez-Salas, Paula; Foster, D.; Claron, M.; Grace, Delia; Validandi, V.; Moodley, Arshnee; Ochieng, Linnet; Bosire, Caroline; Augustine, L.F.; Heffernan, C.; Banjara, S.K.; Kulkarni, B. dcterms.abstract: Bovine milk has shown a positive association with child growth rates, but access in Hyderabad, India, is variable and milk-borne hazards are of concern. The aim of this study was to investigate how milk value chains (VCs) in urban Hyderabad influence microbiological and toxicological milk safety and their intersection with child stunting. A mixed-methods approach was used, encompassing a thematic reflexive analysis of qualitative interviews conducted with 12 VC key informants and risk-based sampling of 42 milk, 24 animal feed and 20 water samples that were subjected to microbiological and aflatoxin testing. Key themes identified were financial instability, trust-based processes, milk safety concerns and power imbalances in the VCs. The microbiological analysis showed contamination in unpasteurized milk at various nodes, with high levels of total colony count, faecal coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and yeast/mould, while water used in the VCs also showed microbial contamination. A total of 67% of dairy feed samples tested positive for total aflatoxins; all of them were within Indian regulatory limits. Opportunities for safer and more nutritious milk that could help to reduce child stunting include improved food safety practices, enhanced awareness of milk-borne hazards, institutional accountability and increased agency of VC actors. This article is part of the theme issue 'Biological, biomedical and environmental drivers of stunting'. Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831912026-05-14T00:00:00ZHäsler, BarbaraRamachandrappa, N.K.Rotta, S.Konapur, A.Ravichandran, T.Dominguez-Salas, PaulaFoster, D.Claron, M.Grace, DeliaValidandi, V.Moodley, ArshneeOchieng, LinnetBosire, CarolineAugustine, L.F.Heffernan, C.Banjara, S.K.Kulkarni, B.Bovine milk has shown a positive association with child growth rates, but access in Hyderabad, India, is variable and milk-borne hazards are of concern. The aim of this study was to investigate how milk value chains (VCs) in urban Hyderabad influence microbiological and toxicological milk safety and their intersection with child stunting. A mixed-methods approach was used, encompassing a thematic reflexive analysis of qualitative interviews conducted with 12 VC key informants and risk-based sampling of 42 milk, 24 animal feed and 20 water samples that were subjected to microbiological and aflatoxin testing. Key themes identified were financial instability, trust-based processes, milk safety concerns and power imbalances in the VCs. The microbiological analysis showed contamination in unpasteurized milk at various nodes, with high levels of total colony count, faecal coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and yeast/mould, while water used in the VCs also showed microbial contamination. A total of 67% of dairy feed samples tested positive for total aflatoxins; all of them were within Indian regulatory limits. Opportunities for safer and more nutritious milk that could help to reduce child stunting include improved food safety practices, enhanced awareness of milk-borne hazards, institutional accountability and increased agency of VC actors. This article is part of the theme issue 'Biological, biomedical and environmental drivers of stunting'.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183185dc.title: Rapid multi-residue screening for veterinary antibiotics in animal feed: validation of existing lateral flow assays and a microbiological inhibition test to assess chicken feed dc.contributor.author: Njaramba, Jane K.; Broekaert, K.; Reybroeck, W.; Daeseleire, E.; Muloi, Dishon M.; Moodley, Arshnee; Antonissen, G. dcterms.abstract: Undeclared antibiotics in poultry feed contribute to exposure to antimicrobial drug residues, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where routine surveillance is limited by cost and laboratory constraints. Conventional analytical screening requires specialised equipment, making rapid, accessible alternatives valuable. This study evaluated the feasibility of re-purposing qualitative antibiotic screening techniques, originally developed and validated for milk, in rapid, multi-residue antibiotic detection in broiler feed after specialised sample pre-treatment. A microbial inhibition assay and three lateral-flow tests were validated through CCβ determination, stability assessment, and false-positive evaluation. Blank feed samples (pellets, mash, and crumbles) from three Belgian suppliers were spiked using milk detection limits, and 124 Kenyan commercial broiler feed samples (November − December 2022) were screened. CCβ values were established for twelve antibiotic classes. The inhibition assay offered broad detection but higher CCβ values (200 to > 100,000 µg/kg) than rapid tests (3–800 µg/kg). Rapid tests produced no false positives; the inhibition assay had one false positive in 30 samples (3.3%). Extracted samples remained stable for 24 h at 4 ± 2 °C, and frozen controls performed consistently. LC-MS/MS confirmed tylosin, quinolones, and five sulphonamides in 12 of 124 field samples. These methods, currently validated for use in milk, reliably detected multiple antibiotic classes in broiler feed, showing promise as practical monitoring tools for antibiotic contamination or carryover in feed in resource-limited settings. cg.contributor.initiative: One Health cg.contributor.programAccelerator: Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831852026-05-22T00:00:00ZNjaramba, Jane K.Broekaert, K.Reybroeck, W.Daeseleire, E.Muloi, Dishon M.Moodley, ArshneeAntonissen, G.Undeclared antibiotics in poultry feed contribute to exposure to antimicrobial drug residues, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where routine surveillance is limited by cost and laboratory constraints. Conventional analytical screening requires specialised equipment, making rapid, accessible alternatives valuable. This study evaluated the feasibility of re-purposing qualitative antibiotic screening techniques, originally developed and validated for milk, in rapid, multi-residue antibiotic detection in broiler feed after specialised sample pre-treatment. A microbial inhibition assay and three lateral-flow tests were validated through CCβ determination, stability assessment, and false-positive evaluation. Blank feed samples (pellets, mash, and crumbles) from three Belgian suppliers were spiked using milk detection limits, and 124 Kenyan commercial broiler feed samples (November − December 2022) were screened. CCβ values were established for twelve antibiotic classes. The inhibition assay offered broad detection but higher CCβ values (200 to > 100,000 µg/kg) than rapid tests (3–800 µg/kg). Rapid tests produced no false positives; the inhibition assay had one false positive in 30 samples (3.3%). Extracted samples remained stable for 24 h at 4 ± 2 °C, and frozen controls performed consistently. LC-MS/MS confirmed tylosin, quinolones, and five sulphonamides in 12 of 124 field samples. These methods, currently validated for use in milk, reliably detected multiple antibiotic classes in broiler feed, showing promise as practical monitoring tools for antibiotic contamination or carryover in feed in resource-limited settings.https://hdl.handle.net/10568/183178dc.title: Stability and yield performance of lablab genotypes across multiple environments in Ethiopia dc.contributor.author: Aleme, M.; Mengistu, G.; Tulu, D.; Dejene, M.; Feyissa, F.; Temteme, S.; Assefa, Getnet dcterms.abstract: In Ethiopia, the availability of quality animal’s feed is a greater challenge to livestock production than the animal genetic resources and their health problems. In this context to identify suitable genotypes for particular environment, 13 Lablab genotypes (Lablab purpureus L.) were examined across three different sites of Ethiopia during the year of 2020 and 2021 for their performance on dry matter yield. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in each location was applied to complete the trials. The dry matter yields were logged and analyzed using the additive main effects multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus genotype -by-environment (GGE) biplot models. The combined analysis of variance showed that dry matter yield was significantly affected by the environment (63.04%), followed by genotype (15.90%), and genotype by environment (G×E) interface (10.04%). Based on the AMMI and GGE biplot, the tested genotypes were categorized into four mega-environments. The first comprises E3 and E6, the second comprises E4, the third comprises E1, and the last mega-environment holds E2 and E5. The GGE biplot analysis revealed that the six endearing genotypes, G1, G3, G7, G12, and G13, scored higher dry matter yield in corresponding environments, While the AMMI model showed the G5, G6, G9, G10, and G11 were comparably stable higher yielders, whereas G12 had the highest dry matter yield but was an unstable genotype. Based on the AEC line, genotypes namely G10, G6, G2, and G5 were relatively stable, though G13, G3, and G1 were unstable genotypes. According to this finding, breeding improvement was shown in dry matter, and the selected genotypes could be suggested for national production. Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://hdl.handle.net/10568/1831782026-05-22T00:00:00ZAleme, M.Mengistu, G.Tulu, D.Dejene, M.Feyissa, F.Temteme, S.Assefa, GetnetIn Ethiopia, the availability of quality animal’s feed is a greater challenge to livestock production than the animal genetic resources and their health problems. In this context to identify suitable genotypes for particular environment, 13 Lablab genotypes (Lablab purpureus L.) were examined across three different sites of Ethiopia during the year of 2020 and 2021 for their performance on dry matter yield. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in each location was applied to complete the trials. The dry matter yields were logged and analyzed using the additive main effects multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus genotype -by-environment (GGE) biplot models. The combined analysis of variance showed that dry matter yield was significantly affected by the environment (63.04%), followed by genotype (15.90%), and genotype by environment (G×E) interface (10.04%). Based on the AMMI and GGE biplot, the tested genotypes were categorized into four mega-environments. The first comprises E3 and E6, the second comprises E4, the third comprises E1, and the last mega-environment holds E2 and E5. The GGE biplot analysis revealed that the six endearing genotypes, G1, G3, G7, G12, and G13, scored higher dry matter yield in corresponding environments, While the AMMI model showed the G5, G6, G9, G10, and G11 were comparably stable higher yielders, whereas G12 had the highest dry matter yield but was an unstable genotype. Based on the AEC line, genotypes namely G10, G6, G2, and G5 were relatively stable, though G13, G3, and G1 were unstable genotypes. According to this finding, breeding improvement was shown in dry matter, and the selected genotypes could be suggested for national production.