Abstract

Genetic purity assessment is mandatory for seed certification. Currently, this process is carried out through the grow-out test (GOT), which faces several challenges, including the need for long-term assessment. Limited information on the use of molecular markers in the genetic purity assessment of crops in African countries prompted the purpose of this study. This work presents a review of the available literature on the applications of molecular markers in the genetic purity assessment of crop varieties, and it also highlights the position of African countries in the adoption and application of molecular markers for genetic purity assessment. Google Scholar and ResearchGate databases were searched to identify relevant literature. When evaluating Africa's position in utilizing molecular marker technology for the genetic purity assessment of crops, only 6 out of the 82 studies included in this review were conducted in Africa. Based on the limited number of studies from African countries, this work recommends that, in order to keep pace with the growing technology in seed certification and address the inherent limitations of the GOT, further research is needed to assess the potential of molecular markers in the genetic purity assessment of crops. 

Key words: genetic purity, molecular markers, crops, Africa, review.