Okra, also known as "lady's finger" or "gumbo," is a green, finger-shaped vegetable widely cultivated in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions worldwide. It is valued for its edible green seed pods, which are a staple in many African, Indian, and Caribbean cuisines. Okra is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
Nigeria
Nigeria leads the continent with an impressive production of 1,911,818.5 tonnes of okra in 2022. The country's favorable climate and fertile soil contribute to its high output, making okra a significant crop in Nigerian agriculture.
Mali
Mali produced 764,089 tonnes of okra in 2022. The crop is an essential part of Malian cuisine and agriculture, supporting both local consumption and export markets.
Sudan
With a production of 295,869 tonnes in 2022, Sudan ranks third. Okra is widely grown in Sudanese farms, playing a crucial role in the country's agricultural sector.
Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire produced 183,832.63 tonnes of okra in 2022. The crop is a popular vegetable in Ivorian markets and kitchens, contributing significantly to the country's food security.
Egypt
Egypt's okra production reached 79,502.55 tonnes in 2022. The vegetable is a common ingredient in Egyptian dishes, and its cultivation supports numerous farmers across the country.
Cameroon
In 2022, Cameroon produced 77,631.82 tonnes of okra. The crop is integral to Cameroonian cuisine, often used in soups and stews.
Ghana
Ghana's okra production was 69,345.38 tonnes in 2022. Okra is a staple food in Ghana, commonly used in various traditional dishes.
Benin
Benin produced 65,670.09 tonnes of okra in 2022. The crop is essential to Beninese agriculture and cuisine, providing both nutritional and economic benefits.
Niger
Niger's okra production stood at 29,879.31 tonnes in 2022. Despite the country's arid conditions, okra cultivation remains a viable agricultural activity, supporting local diets and markets.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso produced 23,782.33 tonnes of okra in 2022. The crop is vital for food security in Burkina Faso, contributing to the nation's agricultural diversity.
In summary, okra is a critical crop across many African countries, supporting both local economies and diets. The top producers, led by Nigeria, showcase the importance of this vegetable in the continent's agricultural landscape.
These figures showcase the okra production across various African countries in the year 2022.