Peer-learning and support among health policy and systems research actors in West Africa: a social network analysis

Background Health policy and systems research (HPSR) is vital for strengthening health systems, yet its development in West Africa remains constrained by limited capacity. To strengthen capacity, the West African Network of Emerging Leaders in Health Policy and Systems (WANEL) was created to foster peer learning and cross-country collaboration among early- and mid-career HPSR actors. This study used Social Network Analysis (SNA) to examine WANEL’s structure and functioning, with the aim of understanding how well the network supports its capacity and HPSR field-building goals. Methods A cross-sectional whole-network survey was conducted with all 103 WANEL members, supported by document reviews and qualitative interviews. Relationship types assessed included acquaintance, communication, advice, mentorship and research collaboration. Data were analysed using Gephi to visualize relational patterns and compute metrics such as density and centralization, while qualitative findings provided context for interpreting network dynamics. Results While WANEL has enhanced cross-country awareness and disciplinary diversity, the network exhibits low cohesion and high centralization. Key support relationships, particularly mentorship, advice and collaboration are sparse and unevenly distributed. A few actors dominate the flow of information and access to opportunities, while many, especially early-career and francophone actors, remain peripheral or isolated. Network interactions are driven by prior relationships and linguistic or professional affinity, limiting broader engagement. Conclusion Findings reveal structural barriers that constrain WANEL’s potential to act as an inclusive platform for HPSR capacity-strengthening. To fulfil its vision, the network must address its current fragmentation by building stronger cross-cutting ties, broadening participation and decentralizing influence. This study contributes empirical insights into the design and governance of regional HPSR networks in low- and middle-income contexts and underscores the importance of relational infrastructure in advancing collective capacity.