Author’s Disclosure Block: Dana Taghaddos, none; Keean Nanj, none; Fanle (Lele) Xiao, none; Enitan Sogbesan, none

Abstract Body
Purpose: Ophthalmic research is crucial for addressing vision impairment, particularly in Africa, which carries a disproportionately high burden of global blindness. Despite this, research contributions from Africa remain low. This study aims to evaluate the current state of ophthalmic research in Africa, identify limitations, and propose strategies to enhance research output. Methods: A literature review of articles published from January 2019 to December 2024 in seven ophthalmic journals—British Journal of Ophthalmology (BJO), Ophthalmology, American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO), European Journal of Ophthalmology (EJO), Indian Journal of Ophthalmology (IJO), and ARVO journals (Investigative Ophthalmology &Visual Science and Translational Vision Science &Technology)—was conducted. Studies with at least one African-affiliated author were included. Study Design: Scoping review. Results: A total of 3216 studies were screened, and 109 articles were included. The BJO had the highest representation (29.36%, n=32), followed by ARVO journals (25.69%, n=28) and Ophthalmology (20.18%, n=22). Egypt (22.94%, n=25), South Africa (21.10%, n=23), and Ethiopia (20.18%, n=22) were the top African contributors. International collaborations were led by the USA (63.30%, n=69), UK (38.53%, n=42), and India (22.02%, n=24). African researchers were first authors in 36.70% (n=40) and last authors in 29.36% (n=32) of publications. The main areas of research included retina (20.18%, n=22), clinical/epidemiologic studies (19.27%, n=21), and glaucoma (15.60%, n=17). Conclusions: African-affiliated ophthalmic research remains underrepresented in leading journals. Egypt, South Africa, and Ethiopia accounted for the majority of publications, reflecting stronger research infrastructures. International collaborations highlight the reliance on external partnerships, underscoring the need for capacity building and increased funding to improve research independence. Strengthening local research capacity is vital to enhance Africa's impact in global ophthalmology research.