<p>Bambara groundnut (<i>Vigna subterranean</i> L. Verdc), a leguminous crop native to Africa, is of paramount importance to food security as it represents one of the protein sources to poor farmers in rural areas. However, its genetic diversity and population structure remain poorly understood, especially among the diverse germplasm available in Benin. This study was directed towards genetic characterization of Bambara groundnut population in Benin using DArT single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. A population of 90 Bambara groundnut accessions were genotyped with SNP markers and analyzed for genetic diversity and population structure. The population structure analysis classified the 90 accessions into 9 sub-populations, suggesting wider diversity within the collected germplasm. The results showed a higher observed heterozygosity compared to expected heterozygosity withing the subpopulations. Cluster analysis showed that some accessions shared genetic similarities, indicating a common ancestry or gene flow between populations. Results from this research highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the need for targeted breeding strategies that leverage the genetic diversity available in local populations. This study contributes to the understanding of the genetic basis of Bambara groundnut in Benin and provides essential information for future breeding programs and sustainable agricultural practices aimed at improving this underutilized crop. Acquiring knowledge of genetic characteristics of this crop will aid in its conservation and genetic improvement to meet the challenges of food security in a changing climate.</p>