Peer Review Process

Double-Blind Peer Review Process

At Afrihorizon Journals, we uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and objectivity by employing a double-blind peer review process. This means that the identities of both the authors and the reviewers remain confidential throughout the review process. By maintaining anonymity, we ensure that manuscripts are evaluated solely on their academic merit, free from biases related to institutional affiliation, nationality, gender, or prior reputation. This upholds commitment to academic excellence, fairness, and unbiased scholarly publishing.

Reviewer Selection

The editorial team carefully selects qualified experts in the manuscript’s specific field to serve as peer reviewers. The selection process considers the reviewers' expertise, research background, and prior peer-review experience. Reviewers with potential conflicts of interest, such as close professional or personal relationships with the author(s), are not assigned to the manuscript.

Review Criteria

Reviewers assess manuscripts based on a set of predefined criteria that ensure academic quality, methodological soundness, and contribution to the field. The key evaluation aspects include:

1. Originality and Contribution:

Does the manuscript present a unique research, ideas, or perspectives?

Does it add value to the existing body of knowledge?

1. Methodological Rigor and Clarity:

Are the research methods appropriate, clearly described, and well-executed?

Are data collection and analysis methods reliable and valid?

1. Significance and Relevance of Findings:

Do the results contribute meaningfully to the field?

Are the conclusions well-supported by the evidence?

1. Logical Structure and Coherence:

Is the manuscript well-organized and logically structured?

Is the argumentation clear, well-developed, and compelling?

1. Adherence to Ethical Standards:

Does the study comply with ethical guidelines, including proper citations, data transparency, and responsible research conduct?

Timeline and Process

Reviewers are given 14 days to provide detailed feedback and recommendations. In cases where additional time is required, the authors is notified accordingly. Based on reviewer feedback, the editorial team makes one of the following decisions:

1. Accept with Minor Revisions – The manuscript requires only small refinements before acceptance.
2. Revise and Resubmit – The manuscript needs substantial improvements, and the revised version will undergo another round of review.

Ensuring a Fair and Constructive Review

To maintain the integrity of the review process, reviewers are encouraged to provide constructive and professional feedback that helps authors improve their work. The journal strictly prohibits personal criticisms and ensures that all reviews remain focused on the manuscript's content and quality.