Current state of African journal publishing: where are we in terms of research publications?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31366077Keywords:
Africa, articles, challenge, journal, publishing, researchAbstract
Introduction. The study examined the current situation of African journal publishing, as well as where we are when it comes to research publications.
Method. The study used a survey research design and the researcher purposively selected 15 countries whose total contribution to the entire continent’s publication is approximately 80%. Data for the study was collected using a combination of webometrics techniques, document analysis, and reflective analysis.
Analysis. The researcher followed a three-step data analysis process of identifying, summarizing, and analysing information using statistical methods. The metrics were based on Scopus data (SCImago) as of 2024, data was from 1996-2023.
Results. The number of journals, research publications, citations, cited documents, and H-index of African countries was low and faced financial support (government and universities), education and advocacy challenges.
Conclusion. Despite all of the obstacles, the outcomes were positive about the future. Therefore, education and training, building strong publishing institutions, registering and starting journals, and increasing research publications yearly without compromising on quality to create higher impact journals and acceptance for appointment and promotion will change the narrative.
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