Sustainable livestock projects in Honduras: Specialists' insights on current challenges, effective strategies, and successful experiences

In Honduras, sustainable livestock practices [SLPs] are gaining attention as strategies to address environmental degradation and improve rural livelihoods. However, their implementation and scaling remain uneven. This qualitative case study explores the perspectives of ten development specialists engaged in national livestock projects, examining how human and social capital influence program success. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework [SLF], data were collected using a combination of semi-structured interviews, document reviews, and field observations. Data analysis highlighted the challenges, strategies, and contextual factors shaping the outcomes of sustainable livestock interventions. Findings reveal persistent barriers to adoption, including limited producer engagement, resource constraints, and market-related challenges. Despite these obstacles, participants described effective approaches such as Farmer Field Schools (FFS), participatory training methods, and strong institutional partnerships. Technical expertise and collaborative networks were key factors contributing to positive outcomes. Producer organizations also played a vital role in facilitating market access and strengthening collective action. The study concludes that sustainable livestock development must go beyond technical training to institutional strengthening, value chain integration, and local adaptation. Recommendations include expanding participatory learning methods, enhancing access to financial and technical support, and fostering inclusive decision-making for long-term sustainability.