Goats fulfil unique subsistence and socio-cultural roles in smallholder farmers’ livelihoods in Laos. Increasing goat productivity can improve conditions of farmers’ livelihoods, but it is unclear which approaches are most appropriate for resource-constrained farmers who balance multiple farming enterprises on small plots of land. Some approaches to increasing goat productivity are more applicable in Laos than are others. These approaches should be prioritised by the Government of Laos’ policy and development projects to benefit the widest cohorts of farmers.

This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

A well-functioning farm advisory services play a vital role in the improvement of livestock sector in low-income countries. We explored the ways in which capacity building through a particular training and professional-development intervention can lead farm advisors to act as innovation brokers within the advisory services system of Pakistan. The results are highly instrumental in strengthening farm advisory services and the role of farm advisors in low-income countries to support farmers in improving their livelihoods.

This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

The concern over the spread of antimicrobial resistance has prompted a search for alternative solutions. Black soldier fly larvae extracts possess natural antibacterial properties that can potentially inhibit bacterial growth. Rearing black soldier fly larvae on a bread waste-based substrate enhanced their lauric acid yield, resulting in significant antibacterial efficacy against E. coli; hence, incorporating larval oil into animal feed holds the potential for reducing antibiotic drug usage.

This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

Feather meal (FM) is a major by-product of the poultry industry and is potentially a valuable source of crude protein and amino acids. However, the major constraint to its use is the feather protein keratin that reduces FM digestibility. The aim of this study was to explore technologies to improve FM digestibility.

This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.

White-rot fungus technology can revolutionise the utilisation of rice straw, because it enhances its quality by breaking down rigid components and boosting nutritional value. Investigating the temperature tolerance of these fungi is crucial for the practical application process, ensuring their effectiveness in diverse enviromental conditions and promoting their use in livestock feed. Unlocking their potential can increase the utility of this abundant by-product, contributing to environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023.