iarjalsIARJALSIARJALS2708-5104https://doi.org/10.47310/iarjals.2022.v03i02.011An Assessment of the Nutritional Content of Selected Neglected and Underutilized Indigenous Wild Leafy Vegetables Ceratotheca Sesamoides and Corchorus Olitorius Consumed in Manyumbi Area of Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia: A Preliminary Study for Recovering Africa’s Lost Potential CropsChansaChombaHarryChabwelaWinstoneChavwakailaNative leafy vegetables play a critical role in the livelihoods of many rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa including Zambia. This study was carried out in 2021and 2022 aimed at identifying and evaluating the nutritional content of the two wild leafy vegetables consumed as okra Ceratotheca sesamoides and Corchorus olitorius. Field observations using field guides and interview with local people who use the species for food were used to identify species in situ. To ascertain the species’ identification, specimens were collected and taken to the herbarium for authentification. Nutrient composition assessments were restricted to fats/lipids, protein, potassium/ash, carbohydrates, fibre and water and these were determined using the Proximate analysis laboratory technique. Results of the assessments showed that Ceratotheca sesamoides and Corchorus olitorius had significantly high levels of protein (p<0.05) than all the nine popular vegetable cultivars (Cabbage - Brassica oleracea var. capitata; Lettuce -Lactuca sativa, Okra– Ladies fingers-Abelmoschus esculentus; Tomato-Solanum lycopersicum; Spinach-Spinacia oleracea; Carrot-Daucus carota; Eggplant -Solanum melongena; Common Onion-Allium cepa; and Rape Leaves-Brassica napus). Additionally, Corchorus olitorius had highest fibre and carbohydrate content than all the other 11 species put together. It was concluded that a thorough assessment of protein be carried out to the level of amino acid composition and also all the macronutrients and micronutrients to be considered in order to establish a detailed species’ nutritional profile, followed by popularization of the species. This would improve people’s attitudes towards the two species as important sources of nutrition for rural communities; to reclassify them as crops rather considering them as weeds. Other uses such pharmaceutical properties should also be investigated and documented.