Ten simple rules for successful and sustainable African research collaborations

Collaborative research consists of an equal partnership of researchers from diverse backgrounds who pursue mutually interesting and beneficial questions to achieve a common purpose via the coordination of activities and the sharing of knowledge, competencies, resources, and information, resulting in new scientific knowledge 1,2.Hence, research collaboration could involve a continuum of organisational levels ranging from individual researchers to institutions, organisations, or even communities from different disciplines and geographical locations 1,3,4.The quick expansion in international collaboration frameworks is primarily fostered by enhanced access to funding, sharing and standardisation of methodological expertise, and opportunities that increase the global impact and integrity of research findings 3,5,6.Research outcomes from international cooperation contribute effectively to global stability, security, and prosperity.It also fosters equal opportunities by ensuring that communities are represented in global policies, particularly those related to health and sustainable development 7.Historically, research within African countries was predominantly conducted by researchers from the Global North, often involving brief periods of fieldwork without establishing long-term collaborations 8.However, African countries are currently experiencing a significant surge in both national and international collaborations, reflecting a shift towards more equitable and sustained research partnerships 9.This change is driven by the continent's unique research potential, offering opportunities not found elsewhere.To fully leverage these opportunities for global research and ensure African researchers' contributions are recognised and integrated within the international scientific community, it is essential to outline key steps that foster effective partnerships.Recognising the evolving landscape of research in Africa, we propose solutions aimed at scaling meaningful collaboration with African researchers, ensuring mutual benefit and enhancing the impact of their work 10,11.It is through such strategies