a ten-year bibliometric analysis of research outputs from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania

Abstract

Aims Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries pose a signifcant health burden across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite this, regional research output is limited, constrained by insufcient infrastructure, limited funding, and underdeveloped research capacity. This bibliometric analysis examined research outputs and collaboration patterns in MSK injury research across three SSA countries, representing a spectrum of income levels: low, lower-middle, and upper-middle income. Methods MSK injury research articles from Malawi (MLW), South Africa (SA), and Tanzania (TZN), published between January 2014 and April 2024, were identifed using Web of Science and Scopus databases, and cross-referenced with ResearchGate. Data were analyzed descriptively in Excel, and institutional coauthorship and collaboration networks were mapped using VOSviewer. Results A total of 329 articles were published across MLW (n = 98), SA (n = 141), and TZN (n = 90) between January 2014 and April 2024. We report a steady increase in the number of publications from 2014, with a research focus on fracture management, outcomes, and lower limb injuries. Most of the research was published in partnership with high-income countries (HICs) (SA: 51%, MLW: 98%, TZN: 87%), with high-income country (HIC) institutions dominating frst and last authorship in MLW (68% and 61%) and TZN (59% and 69%) publications. Most studies were descriptive and based on secondary records. Institutional networks showed strong regional collaboration in SA, international focus in MLW, and limited connectivity in TZN. Conclusion MSK injury research is increasing across MLW, SA, and TZN, but remains largely HIC-led and descriptive, particularly in lower-income countries. Strengthening local leadership, regional collaboration, and research capacity is essential for more sustainable and context-specifc evidence generation.