Unlocking the potential of a neglected crop: a systematic review of research on okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Africa

While several African countries (viz., Nigeria, Mali, and Sudan) are among the top producers of okra and its potential is widely recognized, a thorough analysis of the research landscape is lacking. Therefore, this systematic review analyses okra research in Africa by integrating bibliometrics, geography, and its contribution to sustainable development (viz., food security, livelihoods, and climate resilience). It draws upon 199 research articles selected out of 359 records retrieved from the Web of Science. The bibliometric analysis suggests that the research field primarily focuses on biological and environmental sciences, while overlooking socio-economics. Moreover, affiliations are dominated by a few countries, such as Nigeria and Ghana. The geographical analysis aligns with the bibliometric one and shows that more than half of the studies have been performed in only four countries, namely Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Egypt. The content analysis confirms the lack of research on socio-economics (e.g. livelihoods) but also adds that many environmental issues (e.g. climate change) are inadequately addressed. It also shows that, thanks to its nutritional profile, okra can help address food insecurity and malnutrition in Africa. There is a need to address the identified research gaps to unlock the potential contribution of okra to socio-economic development in Africa.