The taxonomy of the approximately 850 species of sub-Saharan African Odonata is relatively well-known, probably due to the impoverished nature of the fauna as compared to that of other tropical regions. The need for revisions, study of higher classification, comprehension of (often clinal, environmentally induced) variability and knowledge of larvae, phylogeny and biogeography are stressed. Taxonomic  priorities are discussed for each family. Supportive activities include the production of identification manuals for a broader public, the accumulation of supplementary material and the conservation of existing collections. A list of genera with estimated numbers of species, taxonomic status and references is provided, as well as a list of important regional works.