Peer Review Policy

Journal of Ophthalmology of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa (JOECSA) employs a rigorous double-blind peer-review process to ensure the scientific integrity, clinical relevance, and originality of all published content. All manuscripts submitted to JOECSA undergo an initial editorial screening by the Editor-in-Chief or an assigned Associate Editor to assess suitability for the journal's scope, completeness, and adherence to submission guidelines.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih+1

Manuscripts that pass this preliminary check are assigned to at least two independent external reviewers with demonstrated expertise in the relevant subspecialty of ophthalmology or eye health. Reviewers are selected from JOECSA's curated database of qualified professionals, including COECSA members and other recognized experts across Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa, as well as the global ophthalmic community. The double-blind system ensures that both authors and reviewers remain anonymous to each other throughout the evaluation process, thereby minimizing bias and promoting objective, merit-based assessments.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih+1

Reviewers are expected to evaluate manuscripts based on originality, methodological rigor, ethical compliance, clarity of presentation, and relevance to the journal's audience. They provide detailed, constructive feedback to authors and a confidential recommendation to the editor (accept, minor revision, major revision, or reject). The editorial team makes the final decision based on reviewer reports, editorial judgment, and the journal's publication priorities.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih+1

All peer-review activities are managed through the Open Journal Systems (OJS) platform, which tracks reviewer assignments, deadlines, and communications to ensure transparency and timeliness. JOECSA commits to completing the peer-review process within 6–8 weeks of submission, though complex manuscripts or those requiring additional expert input may take longer. Reviewers who complete their assignments are formally acknowledged in the annual Reviewer Acknowledgement section and may receive certificates of recognition.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih

This peer-review policy aligns with PMC's requirement for a clearly stated, consistently applied review process and demonstrates JOECSA's commitment to editorial independence, scientific quality, and ethical publishing standards.