<p>Understanding genetic diversity and population structure is essential for effective breeding, conservation, and utilization of plant genetic resources. This study assessed the genetic diversity and population structure of 86 okra accessions (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus</i> (L.) Moench) (83 landraces and three released cultivars) collected from seven geographic regions of Ethiopia using 16 polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 215 alleles were generated, with a mean of 13.46 alleles per locus, indicating substantial allelic richness across the sampled germplasm. The mean gene diversity and polymorphic information content values suggested high levels of genetic variation within the germplasm. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that most genetic variation resided within regions, with only a small proportion attributed to differences among regions, indicating weak genetic differentiation. Clustering analyses (neighbor-joining), principal coordinate analysis, and Bayesian STRUCTURE analysis consistently revealed moderate structuring with considerable admixture among genotypes. These results suggest extensive gene flow, likely facilitated by farmer-managed seed systems and seed exchange practices. Overall, Ethiopian okra landraces appear to harbor substantial within-region genetic diversity and may form a largely interconnected gene pool. The observed genetic patterns highlight the potential evolutionary significance of traditional seed systems in maintaining diversity and underscore the importance of conserving farmer-managed germplasm for sustainable crop improvement.</p>