Advanced assisted reproductive technology programs in developing countries in the tropics: Factors affecting establishment and success

Despite global increases in food production, chronic food insecurity persists in tropical developing countries, with projections indicating nearly 600 million people will remain undernourished by 2030. This research addresses this critical challenge by investigating Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) as an innovative strategy to enhance livestock productivity in Tanzania, where 31.8% of children under 5 are malnourished and agricultural productivity is severely constrained by climate variability and insufficient infrastructure. A case study in the Mpwapwa Region of Tanzania demonstrated the potential and challenges of implementing advanced ARTs in a developing country context. Of 110 potential bovine embryo recipients, only one pregnancy was confirmed, highlighting the complex barriers to genetic improvement. Key findings revealed that successful ART programs require a holistic approach addressing technological, educational, and systemic challenges. Overall, this thesis evaluates an effort to implement an ART program in a developing country and suggests ways to make future efforts go more smoothly. Future directions should include developing a comprehensive roadmap for developing countries seeking to leverage advanced reproductive technologies. This research offers critical insights into efforts to enhance livestock productivity and, consequently, food security in challenging tropical environments.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Animal Sciences

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Bangert, Elizabeth Ann

Contributors dc:contributor

• Wheeler, Matthew B
• Shike, Dan
• Knox, Robert

• Embryo Transfer
• Livestock Productivity
• Reproductive Biotechnology
• Tanzania
• Tropics
• Cattle

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Elizabeth Bangert

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129569

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F129569