From local legacy to global impact: The SAIEE Africa research journal's journey through international indices

Abstract

The SAIEE Africa Research Journal, incorporating the Transactions of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE), has evolved from a local cornerstone of South African engineering research into a globally recognized publication platform. Since its establishment in 1909, the journal has consistently fostered innovation and academic excellence in electrical engineering and related disciplines. This article summarizes the journal's transformative journey, highlighting its integration into prominent global databases/indices such as IEEE Xplore, Scopus, SciELO SA, DOAJ and WoS. These achievements have amplified its international visibility and impact, as reflected in steadily increasing SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) metrics and the attainment of its first Impact Factor in 2024. The journal's commitment to ethical publishing practices and alignment with global best practices in peer-review have further bolstered its credibility. Key milestones, such as the integration of over a century of archives into IEEE Xplore and the adoption of Open Access Creative Commons licensing, highlight the journal's mission to make African engineering research globally accessible. Additionally, its diverse editorial board and international collaboration highlight its role as a bridge between researchers worldwide.