Journal of African Development

This study provides a systematic exploration of the intellectual landscape, publication patterns, and thematic development in the field of disability entrepreneurship. Although scholarly attention toward this area has grown, existing research remains dispersed and lacks an integrated synthesis. To address this gap, the study adopts a hybrid approach combining systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis, examining 276 peer-reviewed publications produced between 1959 and 2025. Data preprocessing and standardization were conducted using OpenRefine, biblioMagika, and Biblioshiny to enhance reliability and consistency. The analytical procedures encompass performance analysis and science mapping techniques, including citation analysis, co-authorship network analysis, and keyword co-occurrence mapping. The results reveal a significant increase in research productivity and impact after 2015, with the United States emerging as a leading contributor. Key research themes identified include social inclusion, rehabilitation, and inclusive entrepreneurship, whereas areas such as technological enablers and policy-related support mechanisms remain insufficiently explored. Despite limitations associated with the use of a single database and a title-restricted search strategy, this study contributes a comprehensive overview that serves as a reference point for scholars and policymakers by identifying influential studies, research gaps, and future research avenues. As one of the earliest comprehensive bibliometric mappings in this field, it offers essential insights to advance both academic inquiry and inclusive policy formulation......