This study investigated the strategic pathways available to African scholars seeking to publish in peer-reviewed international journals, with a view to developing a comprehensive framework that addresses the structural, linguistic, and institutional barriers unique to the African academic context. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining a quantitative survey administered to 320 scholars drawn from 12 sub-Saharan African universities with qualitative in-depth interviews conducted with 18 purposively selected academics and journal editors. The study found that a significant proportion of African scholars approximately 67.8% — reported experiencing at least three major barriers to publication, including limited access to high-impact journals, inadequate institutional support, and manuscript rejection rates disproportionately attributed to language and methodological deficiencies rather than conceptual weakness. Univariate statistical analyses revealed that institutional affiliation type (public versus private), seniority level, and access to peer mentorship were statistically significant predictors of successful journal submission outcomes (p < 0.05). Qualitative thematic analysis further illuminated systemic challenges related to editorial gatekeeping, the underrepresentation of African epistemologies in mainstream academic discourse, and the resource constraints that impede rigorous research design. The findings culminate in a five-pillar strategic framework — encompassing capacity building, institutional policy reform, mentorship networks, language support, and journal selection strategy — intended to serve as a practical guide for African scholars navigating the complex landscape of academic publishing. The study recommends urgent investment in structured writing support programmes, the establishment of continental peer review training networks, and the integration of publication mentorship into postgraduate curricula across African institutions.