Author Guidelines
Authors are invited to submit original and unpublished manuscripts that are not under consideration for publication elsewhere. Please review the requirements below carefully before submitting.
Manuscript Submission
Authors are invited to submit original and unpublished manuscripts that are not under consideration for publication elsewhere. Manuscripts should be submitted electronically through the journal submission system or official editorial email.
Language
All manuscripts must be written in clear and concise English using either British or American spelling consistently throughout the paper.
Manuscript Format
Manuscripts should generally contain the following sections:
- Title Page
- Abstract
- Keywords
- Introduction
- Literature Review
- Methodology
- Results and Discussion
- Conclusion and Recommendations
- References
- Appendices (if applicable)
Title Page
The title page should include:
- Full title of the manuscript
- Author(s) name(s)
- Institutional affiliation(s)
- Email address(es)
- Corresponding author details
Abstract and Keywords
- Abstract should not exceed 250 words.
- Provide 4–6 keywords below the abstract.
- The abstract should briefly state the purpose, methodology, findings, and implications of the study.
Formatting Requirements
- Font: Times New Roman
- Font Size: 12 pt
- Line Spacing: 1-Single spacing
- Margins: 1 inch on all sides
- Alignment: Justified
- Page numbering: Bottom center or bottom right
Referencing Style
The journal strictly follows the American Psychological Association (APA) 7th Edition referencing style for both in-text citations and reference lists.
Example of In-text Citation
- Single author: (Magesa, 2023)
- Two authors: (Magesa & John, 2022)
- Three or more authors: (Magesa et al., 2021)
Example of Reference
Magesa, E. (2023). Digital innovation and SME performance in East Africa. Journal of Development Studies, 12(3), 45–60. https://doi.org/xxxxx
Tables and Figures
- Tables and figures should be numbered consecutively.
- Each table or figure must have a clear title and source where applicable.
- Authors should ensure that graphics are of publishable quality.
Plagiarism Policy
All submitted manuscripts will be screened using Turnitin plagiarism detection software. Manuscripts with substantial plagiarism, including self-plagiarism, will be rejected immediately. Authors are expected to maintain academic integrity and proper citation practices.
Ethical Considerations
Authors must ensure:
- Originality of work
- Proper acknowledgment of sources
- Disclosure of conflicts of interest
- Ethical approval for studies involving human participants, where applicable
Copyright
Upon acceptance, authors may be requested to transfer publication rights to the journal. Authors remain responsible for the content and views expressed in their articles.
