African pear (Dacoryodes edulis (G.Don) H.J.Lam), is an underutilized tropical fruit tree, native to Central and West Africa. Its edible fruit has a high nutritional value; it is a source of protein, micronutrients, monosaturated fatty acids and high oil content, and thus has a high economic potential. There is ongoing research to select optimum varieties from the wild for cultivation in agroforestry system. The high perishability of African pear is also a major drawback to its exploitation. The increased demand at national and international level in the last decades has motivated researchers to search for solution to extend its shelf life and minimise postharvest loss. This review includes varieties identification challenges, nutritional composition and health benefits of fruit from different origins as well as some contribution on postharvest management of African pear.