Why peer review matters and the reviewer’s role

Reasons for doing reviews

Review provides an objective check that research meets the standard expected in academic and professional publishing. It gives researchers confidence that their ideas have been tested by peers, gives writers a reason to value their own work rather than replicate the work of others, and gives readers trust in what is published. For Mtandao’s journals in particular, review also protects a specific commitment, that published work reflects African knowledge, African theory and African ways of knowing rather than simply repeating frameworks imported from elsewhere.

Reviewers also give something to their own discipline by reviewing. It builds your standing as a recognised expert, keeps you closely engaged with current work in your field before it is published, and contributes directly to the quality of African scholarship reaching print.

The AJSW editing and peer review process

Understanding where you sit in the process helps you review at the right level of detail and within the right timeframe. This process is the model for peer review across Mtandao’s journals, including JDA, SINCCD and the Journal of Ubuntu.

1. Editorial check, 1 to 15 days. The editor checks the manuscript against journal policy, standard and originality. Poor fits are rejected at this stage before reaching reviewers.
2. Editorial review, 15 to 30 days. The editor examines methods, results and conclusions more closely.
3. Peer review, 30 to 90 days. The editor identifies two reviewers, sends an anonymised title page and abstract to confirm availability, then sends the anonymised manuscript. You will not know the identity of the other reviewer, and the author will not know your identity.
4. Editorial decision, 1 to 30 days. The editor considers all reviewer feedback and decides. If undecided, another editorial team member is consulted.
5. Author revision. The author is informed of the decision, makes corrections, and reports what was and was not addressed and why.
6. Copy editing, 30 to 90 days. The manuscript goes to a type setter, and the author proofreads the final copy edited version.

The reviewer’s role and conduct

A few conduct expectations apply throughout your work as a reviewer.

• Do not reveal your identity to the author, and do not discuss the manuscript with the other reviewer assigned to it.
• Conflict of interest. If you are related to, befriended by, or working with an author, inform the editor so an informed decision can be made about whether you should proceed.
• Availability and turnaround. Notify the editor immediately if you are able and suitable to review. Feedback is normally expected within 14 to 30 days. If you need more time, tell the editor.
• Each reviewer may review 2 articles per publication cycle, rarely extended to 4. Review time is extended accordingly in those cases.
• Voluntary work. Review work is unpaid. It is offered as a contribution to the quality and integrity of African scholarship.