Tanzania’s government is offering scientists a cash incentive of TZS50 million (approximately US$22,000) to publish their research in renowned international journals. The Research Excellence Award aims to enhance the visibility of Tanzanian scientists globally and improve the ranking of the country’s universities. Researchers must have published papers in the top 10% of journals in selected disciplines to be eligible. While some welcome the initiative as a much-needed incentive, others argue that the funds could have been better utilized. The program’s requirement for publications to align with national research areas also raises questions about the interest of high-impact journals in publishing Tanzanian research.
