Editorial Practices of African Journals: A Qualitative Analysis from Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Mozambique

Abstract

Information on journal visibility helps researchers decide where to publish. Some quality indicators used are directly associated with the journal's editorial practices. By understanding the barriers, challenges, and opportunities, this study aims to explore existing editorial practices among African journals, examine the underlying factors affecting those practices, and understand the views and preferences of authors regarding their choice of journals for publication. This study triangulated multiple sources of information and qualitative data-gathering techniques to allow for nuanced and deeper insights into the performance and visibility of African journals. In-depth Interviews (IDIs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted in Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Mozambique. The study population comprised journal editors-in-chief, representatives from African-wide journal databases and indexers, institutional repository representatives, and authors. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify participants. Qualitative data from audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and exported to NVivo software for analysis using reflexive thematic analysis, with emerging concepts further analyzed using Leximancer software. Four main themes emerged from participant interviews. The study found that a large proportion of African journals are neither discoverable via Google Scholar nor included in Scopus, and that overcoming historical neglect through sustainable funding, capacity building, and technological advancement will be key to enhancing their global visibility, trust, and academic impact