Journal of Modern African Studies


The Journal of Modern African Studies is a quarterly academic journal of African studies covering developments in modern African politics and society. Its main emphasis is on current issues in African politics, economies, societies, and international relations. The journal is published by Cambridge University Press and as of 2018 its editors-in-chief are Ian Taylor and Ebenezer Obadare. It was edited by Leonardo A. Villalón and Paul Nugent from 2012 to 2017, and by Christopher Clapham from 1997 to 2012. David Kimble served as its founding editor from 1963 to 1997.

Abstracting and indexing

The journal is abstracted and indexed in:
According to the Journal Citation Reports, the journal has a 2021 impact factor of 1.137.

Notable articles

  • "Explaining the 1994 genocide in Rwanda" - Helen M. Hintjens, Jun 1999
  • "China's engagement in Africa: scope, significance and consequences" - Denis M. Tull, Sep 2006
  • "Business environment and entrepreneurial activity in Nigeria: implications for industrial development" - Mary Agboli and Chikwendu Christian Ukaegbu, Mar 2006
  • "Diamonds or development? A structural assessment of Botswana's forty years of success" - Ellen Hillbom, Jun 2008