JOURNAL OF MODERN AFRICAN STUDIES

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Disciplines to Decode Africa's Modern Realities

Introduction

Welcome to the JOURNAL OF MODERN 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 MODERN 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
ISSN0022-278x
PublisherCAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1963 to 2024
AbbreviationJ MOD AFR STUD / J. Mod. Afr. Stud.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressEDINBURGH BLDG, SHAFTESBURY RD, CB2 8RU CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Modern African Studies is dedicated to exploring the complexities of contemporary African societies, politics, and economies. It aims to provide a platform for critical discourse on the multifaceted dynamics that shape the continent, engaging both theoretical perspectives and empirical research.
  1. Political Dynamics and Governance:
    The journal focuses on the political landscape of African nations, analyzing governance structures, political movements, and the role of various actors in shaping political outcomes.
  2. Socioeconomic Issues and Development:
    Research published often examines socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, inequality, and development strategies, providing insights into the lived experiences of African populations.
  3. Gender and Social Justice:
    A significant emphasis is placed on gender issues, exploring women's roles in politics, legal systems, and social movements, aiming to highlight the quest for justice and equality.
  4. Cultural and Historical Contexts:
    The journal also delves into the cultural and historical dimensions of African societies, examining how history influences contemporary identities and social dynamics.
  5. International Relations and Globalization:
    The impact of globalization and international relations on African states is a recurrent theme, particularly regarding trade, migration, and foreign influence.
  6. Environmental and Land Issues:
    Research on land politics, resource management, and environmental sustainability is prevalent, addressing critical challenges faced by communities across the continent.
The Journal of Modern African Studies has identified several emerging themes that reflect the current challenges and opportunities within African societies. These trends highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues and the evolving landscape of African studies.
  1. Food Sovereignty and Security:
    Recent publications increasingly emphasize food sovereignty, examining local movements and policies aimed at achieving sustainable food systems in the face of global challenges.
  2. Gender Justice and Political Participation:
    There is a notable rise in research exploring women's political participation and gender justice, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of gender dynamics in governance.
  3. Urbanization and Informal Economies:
    The journal is increasingly addressing issues related to urbanization and the informal economy, focusing on how urban spaces are transforming in response to economic and social pressures.
  4. Climate Change and Environmental Justice:
    Emerging research on climate change and its socio-political implications highlights environmental justice as a critical area of concern, particularly in relation to marginalized communities.
  5. Digital Politics and Social Media:
    The impact of digital technologies and social media on political engagement and activism in Africa is a growing area of interest, reflecting the changing landscape of communication and mobilization.
  6. Transnational Movements and Migration:
    There is an increasing focus on transnational movements and migration patterns, exploring their implications for identity, policy, and social change across borders.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Modern African Studies has consistently covered a broad spectrum of topics, certain themes appear to be declining in prominence. These waning areas reflect shifts in focus as the journal adapts to emerging issues and the evolving landscape of African studies.
  1. Post-Colonial Narratives:
    Research focusing on post-colonial theory and its implications for African societies has become less frequent, possibly indicating a shift towards more contemporary analyses rather than historical frameworks.
  2. Traditional Authority Structures:
    Studies centered on traditional authorities and their roles in contemporary governance appear to be diminishing, suggesting a growing interest in modern political structures over historical or customary systems.
  3. International Aid and Development Models:
    There seems to be a decline in discussions surrounding international aid paradigms and their effectiveness, as scholars increasingly focus on local agency and grassroots movements.
  4. Ethnic Politics and Identity Conflicts:
    While still relevant, the frequency of papers specifically addressing ethnic politics and identity-based conflicts has decreased, potentially reflecting a broader trend towards examining national and transnational issues.
  5. Historical Case Studies:
    The journal is moving away from detailed historical case studies, favoring more immediate, contemporary analyses that engage with current socio-political realities.

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