Dual-Stage Review System

1. Editorial Screening (10 Days)
Each submitted manuscript undergoes an initial evaluation by the Editorial Board to ensure baseline compliance and relevance. This stage includes:

  • Verification of alignment with AJLII’s thematic focus and scope

  • Anti-plagiarism check (iThenticate/Turnitin)

  • Assessment of basic methodological soundness

  • Decision to reject or assign to an appropriate Associate Editor for further review

2. Double-Blind Peer Review (6 Weeks)

All manuscripts passing the initial screening are subjected to a rigorous double-blind review process.

  • Each submission is reviewed by a minimum of two reviewers.

  • The reviewer matrix ensures coverage by both:

    • A subject specialist, and

    • A methodological expert.

Review Criteria and Weighting:

  • African Relevance — 40%

  • Scholarly Rigor — 30%

  • Practical Applicability — 30%

Reviewer Selection Requirements:

  • Demonstrated record of impactful research (e.g., publications that have influenced policy or practice)

  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in the African LIS sector

Decision Pathways
Following reviewer recommendations, the Editorial Board applies the following decision options:

  • Accept with Minor Revisions — approximately 10% of submissions

  • Revise and Resubmit — authors are given a 21-day window to make revisions

  • Reject with Developmental Feedback — constructive guidance provided for future improvement

  • Fast-Track Review — reserved for exceptional submissions on Indigenous Knowledge and related high-impact topics