Leading optometry research institutions and countries in Africa: Lessons for building synergy and resilient education

Background: Optometry training is shaped by institutional frameworks, with their professional orientation influenced by the academic pedigree of affiliated scholars. An institution’s research defines the standards of clinical practice, the quality of training and the societal perception of the profession. Aim: To identify the leading optometry institutions, the countries at the forefront of optometry research and the most influential academics contributing to institutional rankings in the field of optometry in Africa. Setting: The study was conducted at the University of Cape Coast. Methods: A bibliometric search was performed using Scopus, employing a comprehensive set of optometry-related search terms and a list of all African optometry training institutions. The retrieved publications were subjected to a two-stage screening process to identify studies related to optometry and authors affiliated with African optometry schools who are professional optometrists. Identified institutions were ranked based on the h-index, research productivity, citation metrics and publication rate of affiliated authors of the top 50 scholars. Results: The University of KwaZulu-Natal was identified as Africa’s leading optometry research institution. South Africa emerged as the continent’s foremost contributor to optometry-related research output, with Kovin S. Naidoo being the most influential contributor. Kwadwo O. Akuffo, Godwin O. Ovenseri-Ogbomo and Sofonias A. Fekadu led Ghana, Nigeria and Ethiopia, respectively. Conclusion: Africa hosts nine institutions across seven countries advancing research excellence in optometry, thereby contributing to evidence-informed practice. Contribution: The study identified institutions, countries and researchers within the field of optometry to facilitate collaboration and strategic partnerships. It offers a platform to celebrate these entities’ contributions, fostering motivation and encouraging the sustained pursuit of research excellence.