Journal of Contemporary African Studies

Scope & Guideline

Shaping the future of African studies through rigorous inquiry.

Introduction

Welcome to the Journal of Contemporary African Studies information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Journal of Contemporary African Studies, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0258-9001
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1981 to 1984, from 1986 to 2024
AbbreviationJ CONTEMP AFR STUD / J. Contemp. Afr. Stud.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Contemporary African Studies focuses on a diverse array of issues pertinent to contemporary African societies, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and a critical approach to understanding socio-political dynamics, economic transformations, and cultural narratives across the continent.
  1. Socio-Political Dynamics:
    The journal explores the complex interplay of power, governance, and civil society in African contexts, examining themes such as state sovereignty, grassroots activism, and the role of non-state actors.
  2. Economic Development and Policy:
    Focusing on economic issues, the journal addresses topics like trade agreements, public finance, and the impact of global economic trends on African nations, with an emphasis on empirical analyses and policy implications.
  3. Cultural Studies and Identity:
    The journal investigates cultural expressions and identities in Africa, including literature, music, and religious practices, highlighting how these elements interact with social and political realities.
  4. Gender Studies and Social Inequality:
    A significant focus is placed on gender dynamics, examining the intersections of gender, politics, and socio-economic factors, and advocating for gender equity and social justice.
  5. Environmental and Sustainable Development:
    The journal also emphasizes the importance of environmental sustainability, exploring indigenous practices, climate change implications, and community-led conservation efforts.
Recent publications indicate a dynamic shift towards certain trending and emerging themes that resonate with contemporary challenges and opportunities within African societies.
  1. Climate Change and Environmental Justice:
    There is a growing emphasis on research related to climate change and its socio-economic impacts, reflecting an urgent need to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable practices.
  2. Youth and Employment Dynamics:
    The journal increasingly focuses on the challenges faced by African youth, particularly regarding unemployment and the effectiveness of human capital investment, highlighting the need for innovative solutions.
  3. Digital Activism and Social Change:
    The rise of digital platforms for activism and social movements is gaining attention, showcasing how technology intersects with traditional forms of activism in driving change across the continent.
  4. Gender-Based Analysis in Policy Making:
    An emerging theme is the critical examination of gender dynamics within policy frameworks, emphasizing the importance of integrating gender perspectives in development and governance strategies.
  5. Indigenous Knowledge Systems:
    The journal is increasingly recognizing the value of indigenous practices and knowledge systems in addressing contemporary challenges, particularly in environmental conservation and community development.

Declining or Waning

While the journal maintains a broad focus, certain themes have seen a noticeable decline in prominence over recent years, suggesting shifts in research priorities and emerging interests within the field.
  1. Traditional Economic Models:
    There has been a reduction in studies centered on conventional economic models and theories, as the journal increasingly favors innovative, context-specific analyses that reflect contemporary challenges in African economies.
  2. Post-Colonial Theories:
    Research grounded in older post-colonial theoretical frameworks appears to be waning, with a shift towards more nuanced and intersectional approaches that incorporate contemporary socio-political realities.
  3. Historical Analyses:
    While historical context remains important, there is a noticeable decrease in the frequency of papers focusing solely on historical narratives without linking them to current socio-economic and political issues.

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