Confronting plant-parasitic nematodes in Africa: evolving from conventional control to integrated and microbiome-based strategies

Plant-parasitic nematodes cause substantial yield losses worldwide, with annual reductions estimated at 20–40% in major crops. These include cereals, legumes, root crops, and horticultural systems, especially under moderate-to-severe infestations. At present, more than 4,100 plant-parasitic nematode species are described. However, research and surveillance in sub-Saharan Africa remain limited. This leads to persistent underestimation of nematode-driven losses, which can reach 15 to 80% in regional staples including yams, cassava, tomatoes, maize, bananas, and coffee. A lack of systematic surveys and robust prevalence data hinders effective policy action and technology scaling in sub-Saharan Africa. This review synthesizes evidence from 2000 to 2025, with emphasis on the latest advances (2020–2025), covering global and African evidence on plant-parasitic nematode diversity, crop-specific impacts, and the transition from conventional control to integrated nematode management. Foundational pre-2020 literature is retained where it represents the most comprehensive data source available for sub-Saharan Africa. Biological solutions for nematode suppression in key SSA staple crops, including Trichoderma spp., Purpureocillium lilacinum , and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi consortia, are appraised for their efficacy against root-knot and lesion nematodes in smallholder systems. Molecular tools such as RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas genome editing, nanotechnology, and digital diagnostics are also considered in this review. Special emphasis is placed on persistent barriers such as weak extension services, logistical obstacles, regulatory constraints, and low adoption rates compared to global benchmarks. By situating nematode-induced yield loss within the contexts of food security and economics, the review delineates practical pathways to advance sustainable management in African smallholder systems. It also charts clear directions for future research, such as participatory trials, tailored microbial inoculants, and investment in local diagnostics. These steps promote the adoption of integrated nematode management across the sub-Saharan Africa.