Academic Profiles

Prof OB Onyancha

College of Human Sciences
School of Arts
Department: Information Science
Research Professor
Tel: 012 429 6724
E-mail: onyanob@unisa.ac.za

Qualifications

  • PhD Library and Information Science - University of Zululand, South Africa, 2007
  • Masters Library and Information Science – University of Zululand, South Africa, 2002
  • Bsc in Information Science – Moi University Kenya, 1992

NRF Rating

C2

Currently teaching

  • Supervising Masters and Doctoral students

Fields of academic interests

  • Informetrics/scientometrics;
  • Information and knowledge management;
  • Knowledge mobilization;
  • Science and Technology Innovation policy (STIP)

Field of Specialisation

  • Informetrics/ Scientometrics / Bibliometrics/Webometrics
  • Information Resource Management (IRM)
  • Management of Information Services
  • Knowledge management and organisation
  • Information Searching and Retrieval (ISR)
  • Research methodology in social sciences
  • information and knowledge management
  • Research data management
  • Research evaluation

Books

Book chapters

  • Bangani, S. & Onyancha, O.B. 2023. An altmetrics study of researchers at the North-West University. In: Fombad, M., Chisita, C., Onyancha, O.B. & Majanja, M.K. (eds). Information Services for a sustainable society: Current Developments in an Era of Information Disorder. De Gruyter Saur. pp. 274-296. https://books.google.co.za/books?id=MSLJEAAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover
  • Onyancha, O.B. & Adeyinka, T. (Eds). 2023. Impact of Global University Ranking Systems on Developing Countries. Hershey, Pennsylvania: IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-6684-8266-7
  • Waithaka, MW & Onyancha, OB. 2023. UTAUT variables’ influence on the adoption and use of open access scholarly publishing in Kenya: a study of selected universities. In: Onyancha, O.B. & Adeyinka, T. (Eds). Impact of Global University Ranking Systems on Developing Countries. Hershey, Pennsylvania: IGI Global, pp. 290-308. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-6684-8266-7.ch016.
  • Fombad, M., Chisita, C., Onyancha, O.B. & Majanja, M.K. (eds). Information Services for a Sustainable Society: Current Developments in an Era of Information Disorder. De Gruyter Saur. pp. 274-296. https://books.google.co.za/books?id=MSLJEAAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover
  • Onyancha, OB. 2023. Research performance and ranking of South African universities using Altmetric’s data, 2014-2020. In: Onyancha, O.B. & Adeyinka, T. (Eds). Impact of Global University Ranking Systems on Developing Countries. Hershey, Pennsylvania: IGI Global, pp. 74-94. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-6684-8266-7.ch005
  • Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. 2021. Opportunities Associated with Open access initiatives: Perspectives of Research Students from Selected Universities in Nigeria, In P. Jain; N. Mnajama, & S. Oladokun (Eds.), Open Access Implications for Sustainable Social, Political, and Economic Development.  IGI Global, p. 183-204.
  • Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. 2020. Use and Management of Emails as Records in African Universities: Perspectives from Selected Librarians in Nigeria.  In S.M. Keakopa and T. L. Mosweu (Eds.). Cases on Electronic Record Management in the ESARBICA Region. IGI Global, pp. 91-113. DOI: https://doi.org//10.4018/978-1-7998-2527-2.
  • Onyancha, OB. 2020. Informetrics research methods outlined. In: P Ngulube (ed). Handbook of Research on Connecting Research Methods for Information Science Research. IGI Global, p. 320-348.
  • Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Application of information systems theories in library and information science research: a content analysis. In: T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 390-399
  • Abok, VA., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Research trends by TU-K Staff in Google Scholar, 2013-2016. In: T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 53-60
  • Nyamasege, GG., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Collaboration Patterns in Knowledge Management Research in Eastern and Southern Africa Region, 1991 – 2016. In: T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 44-52.
  • Onyancha, OB & Majanja, MK. 2017. LIS education. In: Abdullahi, I (ed). Global library and information science: a textbook for students and educators. Berlin: De Gruyter Saur, pp 113-140.
  • Ngulube, P & Onyancha, OB. 2016. Conceptualizing the knowledge of traditional and indigenous communities using informetrics approaches. In: P Ngulube (ed). Handbook of research on theoretical perspectives on indigenous knowledge systems in developing countries, pp 198-224.
  • Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. 2021. Opportunities Associated with Open access initiatives: Perspectives of Research Students from Selected Universities in Nigeria, In P. Jain; N. Mnajama, & S. Oladokun (Eds.), Open Access Implications for Sustainable Social, Political, and Economic Development.  IGI Global, p. 183-204.
  • Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. 2020. Use and Management of Emails as Records in African Universities: Perspectives from Selected Librarians in Nigeria.  In S.M. Keakopa and T. L. Mosweu (Eds.). Cases on Electronic Record Management in the ESARBICA Region. IGI Global, pp. 91-113. DOI: https://doi.org//10.4018/978-1-7998-2527-2.
  • Onyancha, OB. 2020. Informetrics research methods outlined. In: P Ngulube (ed). Handbook of Research on Connecting Research Methods for Information Science Research. IGI Global, p. 320-348.
  • Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Application of information systems theories in library and information science research: a content analysis. In: T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 390-399
  • Abok, VA., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Research trends by TU-K Staff in Google Scholar, 2013-2016. T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 53-60
  • Nyamasege, GG., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. 2019. Collaboration Patterns in Knowledge Management Research in Eastern and Southern Africa Region, 1991 – 2016. In: T. Kwanya, J. Kiplang’at, J. Wamukoya, & D Njiraine. Digital technologies for Information and Knowledge Management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 44-52.
  • Onyancha, OB & Majanja, MK. 2017. LIS education. In: Abdullahi, I (ed). Global library and information science: a textbook for students and educators. Berlin: De Gruyter Saur, pp 113-140.
  • Ngulube, P & Onyancha, OB. 2016. Conceptualizing the knowledge of traditional and indigenous communities using informetrics approaches. In: P Ngulube (ed). Handbook of research on theoretical perspectives on indigenous knowledge systems in developing countries, pp 198-224.

Journal articles

Refereed Journal articles

2023

 

  1. Yeboah, E.B., Onyancha, O.B. & Mhlongo, M.A. 2023. Readiness of Ghanaian university libraries towards the adoption and implementation of Resource Description and Access (RDA). African Journal of Libraries, Archives & Information Science, 33(2): 151-165.
  2. Akinoso, A., Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. 2023. Intranet Characteristics as Determinants of Intranet Utilisation for Knowledge Management in Nigerian Banks. South African Journal of Information Management, 25(1): a1592. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajim.v25i1.1592
  3. Chiya, K.P., Onyancha, O.B. & Ezema, C.I. 2023. Students’ perceptions of user education programmes at the North-West University, South Africa. IFLA Journal, 49(2): 419-431. https://doi.org/10.1177/03400352221130775
  4. Idowu, T.A., Ocholla, D.N. & Onyancha, O.B. Research productivity and scientific impact of gender-based violence in sub-Saharan Africa. Paper scheduled to be published in South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 89(2) (2023)
  5. Onyancha, O.B. Mapping the media and information literacy skills for the post-covid era. Journal of Media Literacy Education, 15(3): 93-109. https://doi.org/10.23860/JMLE-2023-15-3-8.
  6. Ntetha, MA., Onyancha, OB. & Ngoepe, M. Research librarianship in academic libraries in South Africa: services, competencies and responsibilities. Innovation, 66: 3-32.
  7. Onyancha, O.B. How much does Library and Information Science research contribute to research on sustainable development goals? OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development, 16(9): 27-42. https://www.ssrn.com/index.cfm/en/oida-intl-journal-sustainable-dev/.

 

2022

  1. Onyancha, O.B. & Ocholla, D.N. Dispersion of ICT-Related Subject Terms in Information and Knowledge Management Publications: a Bradford analysis. Humanities & Social Sciences Communications, 9, 176 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-022-01189-2
  2. Mensah, M. & Onyancha, O.B. Building and enhancing library services: patrons’ awareness of, and engagement with social media in academic libraries in Ghana. Published online first Journal of Librarianship & Information Science, 54(4): 604-621. https://doi.org/10.1177/09610006211036738
  3. Mensah, M. & Onyancha, OB. Ghanaian academic libraries’ use of social media: a structural equation modelling approach. Information Development, 38(2): 323-342  https://doi.org/10.1177/0266666921999429
  4. Abok, V., Onyancha, O.B. & Kwanya, T. Trends, Patterns and Determinants of Research Productivity at the Technical University of Kenya. Information Development, 38(1): 97-113. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0266666920983400
  5. Waithaka, M.W., Chilimo, W. & Onyancha, O.B. Factors influencing the adoption and use of open access scholarly publishing in selected public universities in Kenya. South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 88(1): 1-14. http://sajlis.journals.ac.za doi: 10.7553/88-1-2049
  6. Onyancha, OB & Mwai, N. Research field specialization in selected Universities in Kenya. African Journal of Libraries, Archives and Information Science, 32(2): 161-176

2021

 

  1. Waithaka, M.W. & Onyancha, O.B. Use of open access channels for scholarly publishing in Kenyan universities. Publishing Research Quarterly, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12109-021-09795-9
  2. Mensah, M. & Onyancha, OB. Ghanaian academic libraries’ use of social media: a structural equation modelling approach. Information Development, https://doi.org/10.1177/0266666921999429
  1. Abok, V., Onyancha, O.B. & Kwanya, T. Trends, Patterns and Determinants of Research Productivity at the Technical University of Kenya. Information Development, https://doi.org/10.1177/0266666920983400
  2. Mutisya, F & Onyancha, OB. User expectations and acceptance of library services at the African Union Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. LIBRI, 71(1): 15-27. https://doi.org/10.1515/libri-2019-0082
  3. Tella, A. & Onyancha, O.B. Explorative Analysis of Scholarly Publishing Experience of Research Students in Nigerian Universities. Paper submitted for possible publication in Accountability in Research: Policies and Quality Assurance. https://doi.org/10.1080/08989621.2020.1843444
  4. Onyancha, OB. Regional and international research collaboration and citation impact in selected sub-Saharan African countries in the period 2000 to 2019. Published online first in the Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication. https://doi.org/10.1108/GKMC-04-2020-0039
  5. Bangani, S. & Onyancha, OB. Evaluation of the national research foundation-rated researchers’ output at a South African university. Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, 70(1/2): 187-202. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/GKMC-02-2020-0017.
  6. Mutisya, FK & Onyancha, OB. The Gaps and Zone of Tolerance in Service Provision at the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights Library in Arusha, Tanzania. African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science, 31(1): 87-104.

 

2020

 

  1. Enakrire, R & Onyancha, OB. Strategies and tools for knowledge management practices in selected academic libraries in Nigeria and South Africa. South African Journal of Information Management, 22(1), 8 pages. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajim.v22i1.1159. 
  2. Onyancha, O.B. Research partnerships that count in sub-Saharan Africa’s research output and impact: a bibliometrics study of selected countries, 2000-2019. African Journal of Libraries, Archives and Information Science, 30 (2): 81-94
  3. Onyancha, OB & Onyango, EA. Information and communication technologies for agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa: a bibliometrics perspective based on the Web of Science data, 1991 – 2018. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 20(5): 16343-16370. https://doi.org/10.18697/ajfand.93.19060
  4. Ugwu, CI, Onyancha, OB & Fombad, M. Transformational and transactional leadership and knowledge sharing in Nigerian university libraries. IFLA Journal, 46(3): 207-223. https://doi.org/10.1177/0340035220917987
  5. Onyancha, OB. A meta-analysis study of the influence of research on economic development in sub-Saharan Africa. Scientometrics, 123 (2): 655-675
  6. Onyancha, OB. Knowledge visualization and mapping of information literacy literature, 1975-2018. IFLA Journal, 46(2): 107-123. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0340035220906536
  7. Mutisya, F & Onyancha, OB. Users’ perceived level of service at the African Union Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights Library in Arusha, Tanzania. Library Management, 41(6/7): 531-543. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-02-2020-0026.
  8. Onyancha, OB. Which way records management research? A cluster analysis of the keywords in RM literature using Scopus data, 1971-2018. ESARBICA, 39(1): 29-45.
  9. Onyancha, OB. Research excellence in the era of online attention: Altmetrics of South Africa’s highly cited papers in selected research fields. Publishing Research Quarterly, 36: 169-185. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12109-019-09679-z
  10. Onyancha, OB. Towards a knowledge specialization index for sub-Saharan Africa: an informetrics study. Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 11: 373-389. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13132-018-0548-7

 

2019

 

19. Phiri, C., Onyancha, OB., Ngulube, P & Chabikwa, S. A Hyperlink analysis of the national archives in the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives (ESARBICA). ESARBICA, 38(1): 124-156

  1. Ocholla, DN & Onyancha, OB. Determining the core concepts of information and communication technologies in the context of information and knowledge management research: a content analysis, 1998 – 2017. In: G. Catalano, C. Daraio, M. Gregori, H.F. Moed & G. Ruocco (eds). Proceesings of the 17th Conference of International Society for Scientometrics and Informetrics, 2-5 September 2019. Rome: ISSI, p. 619-630.
  2. Ugwu, C & Onyancha, OB. Organizational factors and knowledge management applications to user-centered services in Federal university libraries in Nigeria. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 51(1): 275-288. DOI: 10.1177/0961000617726124.

22. Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. Application of information systems theories in library and information science research: a content analysis. In: T Kwanya, J Kiplang'at & D Njiraine (eds). Digital technologies for information and knowledge management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 390-399

23. Abok, VA., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. Research trends by TU-K Staff in Google Scholar, 2013-2016. In: T Kwanya, J Kiplang'at & D Njiraine (eds). Digital technologies for information and knowledge management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 53-60

24. Nyamasege, GG., Onyancha, OB & Kwanya, T. Collaboration Patterns in Knowledge Management Research in Eastern and Southern Africa Region, 1991 - 2016. In: T Kwanya, J Kiplang'at & D Njiraine (eds). Digital technologies for information and knowledge management. Nairobi: Technical University of Kenya, pp. 44-52

 

2018

 

  1. Mungai, G., Onyancha, OB & Kemoni, HN. Tacit knowledge management in pubic institutions in Kenya: a case study of the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) Nairobi. Mousaion 36(1): 21. DOI: https://doi.org/10.25159/0027-2639/3776
  2. Onyancha, OB. Navigating through the rising metrics tide in the 21st Century: which way for academic librarians in support of researchers in sub-Saharan Africa? South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 84(2): 1-13. https://doi.org/10.7553/84-2-1762
  3. Chilimo, WL & Onyancha, OB. How open is open access research in Library and Information Science? South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 84(1): 11-19. https://doi.org/10.7553/84-1-1710
  4. Onyancha, OB. Forty-five years of LIS research evolution, 1971-2015: an informetrics study of the author-supplied keywords. Publishing Research Quarterly, 34(3): 456-470. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12109-018-9590-3
  5. Gichohi, PM., Onyancha, OB & Dulle, FW. A model for public Libraries’ support in the development of small-scale business enterprises in Meru County, Kenya. Public Library Quarterly, 37(1): 81-102. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01616846.2017.1391033
  6. Waithaka, MW., Ngulube, P & Onyancha, OB. Internet use among university students in Kenya: a case study of the university of Nairobi. Innovation, 57: 45-69.
  7. Onyancha, OB., Ngulube, P., Maluleka, J & Mokwatlo, KI. Is there a preferred ‘label’ for the knowledge of traditional and indigenous communities? African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science, 28(2): 155-167.
  8. Onyancha, OB. Mapping collaboration and impact of library and information science research in sub-Saharan Africa, from 1971 to 2016. Library Management, 39(6-7): 349-363. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-06-2017-0059
  9. Onyancha, OB. Fifty years on: an informetrics study of Kenya’s health problems from 1966 to 2015. African Journal of Medical Research, 21(2): 107-115
  10. Munyoro, I. & Onyancha, OB. Towards a model for Parliamentary Constituency Information Centres: a case study of the Parliament of Zimbabwe. Information Development, 34(3): 280-296. DOI: 10.1177/0266666917692642.

 

2017

 

  1. Gichohi, PM., Onyancha, OB & Dulle, FW. Capacity building modules for public libraries to support Small-Scale Business Enterprises in Meru County, Kenya. South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 83(1): 49-58.
  2. Ani, EO., Ngulube, P & Onyancha, OB. A bibliometrics analysis of the visibility of library and information science research in Nigeria in the web of science, 2000-2014. African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science, 27(1): 41-51.
  3. Wachira, MN & Onyancha, OB. Serving remote users in selected public university libraries in Kenya: perspectives of the section heads. Inkanyiso: Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 8(2): 48-58.
  4. Fombad, MC & Onyancha, OB. Knowledge management for development: rethinking the trends of knowledge management research in South Africa. Journal of Information and Knowledge Management, 16(3): 1750021 (2017) [23 pages]: DOI: 10.1142/S0219649217500216.
  5. Munyoro, I. & Onyancha, OB. Sustainability of Zimbabwe’s parliamentary constituent information centres. LIBRI, 67(2): 149-162. DOI: 10.1515/libri-2016-0090.
  6. Onyancha, OB. Altmetrics of South African journals: implications for scholarly impact of South African research. Research Publishing Quarterly, 33(1): 71-91. DOI: 10.1007/s12109-016-9485-0
  7. Ezema, JI & Onyancha, OB. Open access publishing in Africa: advancing research outputs to global visibility. African Journal of Archives, Libraries and Information Science, 27(2): 97-115.
  8. Ezema, JI & Onyancha, OB. Citation impact of health and medical journals in Africa: does open accessibility matter? The Electronic Library, 35(5): 934-952. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-11-2016-0245
  9. Gichohi, PM., Onyancha, OB & Dulle, FW. How public libraries in Meru County, Kenya, address the business information needs of small-scale enterprises. Information Development, 33(4): 418-435. DOI: 10.1177/0266666916667998.
  10. Gichohi, PM., Onyancha, OB & Dulle, FW. Provision of business information services to small-scale business enterprises in Meru County, Kenya. Mousaion, 35(3): 1-21. DOI: https://doi.org/10.25159/0027-2639/2945

 

2016

 

  1. Rotich, D & Onyancha, OB. Trends and patterns of medical and health research at Moi University, Kenya, between 2002 and 2014: an informetrics study. South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 82(2): 20-33.
  2. Maluleka, JR & Onyancha, OB. Research collaboration in library and information science schools in South Africa, 1991-2012: an informetrics study. Mousaion, 34(3): 36-59.
  3. Onyancha, OB. Open research data in sub-Saharan Africa: a bibliometric study using the Data Citation Index. Research Publishing Quarterly, 32(3): 227-246. DOI: 10.1007/s12109-016-9463-6
  4. Ezema, JI & Onyancha, OB. A Bibliometric Analysis of Health and Medical Journals: Issues in Medical Scholarly Communication in Africa. Serials Review, 42(2): 116-128. DOI: 10.1080/00987913.2016.1182881.
  5. Onyancha, OB. Public programming in the archival literature: revelations from a content analysis of the subject matter. ESARBICA Journal, 35: 46-65.
  6. Maluleka, JR & Onyancha, OB & Ajiferuke, I. Factors Influencing Research Collaboration in LIS Schools in South Africa. Scientometrics, 107(2): 337-355.

 

2015

 

  1. Ani, EO., Ngulube, P & Onyancha, OB. Perceived effect of accessibility and utilization of electronic resources on productivity of academic staff in selected Nigerian universities. SAGE Open, 5(4): 1-7. DOI: 10.1177/2158244015607582.

52. Nwagwu, W.E., & Onyancha, OB. Back to the Beginning — The Journal is Dead, Long Live Science. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 42(5): 669-679

  1. Kimani, HN & Onyancha, OB. Information literacy skills among incoming first-year undergraduate students at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa in Kenya. Innovation, 51: 23-45.
  2. Onyancha, OB. Social media and research: an assessment of the coverage of South African universities in ResearchGate, Web of Science and Webometrics Ranking of World Universities. South African Journal of Libraries and Information Science, 81(1): 8-20.
  3. Onyancha, OB., Ngoepe, MS. & Maluleka, JR.  Trends, patterns, challenges and types of archival research in sub-Saharan Africa. African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science, 25(2): 145-159
  4. Onyancha, OB. An informetrics view of the relationship between Internet ethics, computer ethics and cyber ethics. Library HI Tech, 33(3): 387-408

Paper presentations

2023

  1. Association of African Universities (AAU) Conference, 4-7 July 2023, Windhoek Country Club and Resort Conference Centre, Windhoek, Namibia. Delivered a paper: Research Collaboration for Research Excellence in Kenya: an informetric analysis across 27 research fields, 1996-2023
  2. ASSAf Editors Forum, 23 August 2023. Shared a session and made welcoming remarks on Editorial Policies
  3. 23rd Information Studies Conference, 5-7 September 2023, University of Zululand, South Africa. Delivered a keynote address: A Decade of SDGs Research in Public Universities in South Africa
  4. 9th EMSK International Research Conference, 12-13 October 2023, Egerton University, Kenya. Delivered an invited paper: Knowledge Mobilization for Societal Transformation and Sustainability in Kenya
  5. The 3rd International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management, 4-6 October 2023. Delivered a keynote address: Intersections Between Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Development
  6. Research, Education and Training Interest Group Webinar, 29 September 2023. Navigating the Rising Research Metrics Tide: Opportunities for Academic Librarians in the 21st Century
  7. UbuntuNet Connect 2023 Conference, Kampala, Uganda, 26-27 October 2023. Chaired a panel discussion on ‘Knowledge Mobilization for Maximized Research Utilization and Impact in Africa.’

2022

  1. 4th African Regional Conference on Knowledge Management, 21 to 25 November 2022 in Mombasa, Kenya. Presented paper: Indigenous knowledge, traditional knowledge and local knowledge: Informetrics perspectives of the differences and similarities
  2. 22nd Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand, 6-8 September 2022. Delivered a Keynote Address: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Framework for Maximizing Research Impact in LIS
  3. 2nd International Conference on Information Literacy (ICIL), 11-14 October 2022, North West University, South Africa. Presented invited paper: Conceptualising computer, digital, media and information literacy using journals of publication.
  4. ICML + AHILA Conference, 15-19 March 2022, Pretoria, South Africa. Delivered an invited paper: Data Science research: implications and opportunities for health practice.
  5. Global Media and Information Literacy Week, 24-31 October 2022, Abuja, Nigeria. Delivered two invited papers: (a) Lemons for Lemonade? Post-covid opportunities for Media and Information Literacy workers; and (b) Media and Information Literacy research: trends and subject foci.
  6.  SciSTIP bibliometrics training workshop, 14-15 November 2022, Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch University. Delivered a paper: Do sustainable development goals influence Research impact in a field? A case study of social sciences research

2021

  1. Department of Information Science Seminar, University of South Africa, March 2021. Presented paper: Significance or significance of study? Does it matter?
  2. 24th Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL XXIV), 20 – 24 April 2020, Safari Hotel, Windhoek, Namibia. Presented papers: (a) Collection Development Practices at Institutions of Higher Learning in Namibia with Special Reference to Electronic Resources: the Case of the University of Namibia Library, and (b) Awareness of electronic resources at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) library: Students’, lecturers’ and librarians’ perceptions
  3. 21st Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand, September 2021. Presented paper: Data Science: a conceptual analysis based on Scopus Data.
  4. 18th International Conference on Scientometrics & Informetrics, 12-15 July 2021. Presented paper: Do UTAUT variables influence the adoption and use of open access scholarly publishing in Kenya? A case study of selected universities
  5. Makerere University Seminar on Data Science, 16 October 2021. Data literacy or data science or both? A bird’s view using informetrics techniques.

2020

  1. SARIMA Seminar, 4-7 August 2020. Presented paper: Demonstrating and assessing research impact at Unisa: A multi-faceted framework.
  2. Information for Development (I4D) Webinar, Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nairobi, 12-14 October 2020.

 

2019

 

  1. Department of Information Science Seminar, University of South Africa, 12 March 2019. Presented paper: Waithaka, M. & Onyancha, OB. Factors influencing the acceptance and adoption of open-access scholarly publishing by researchers in selected public universities in Kenya.
  2. 20th Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand. Presented paper: Research excellence in the era of online attention: Altmetrics of South Africa’s highly cited papers in selected research fields.
  3. Department of Science and Technology (DST) Innovation for Inclusive Development (IID) Policy Seminar on Research Impact Assessment in the Social Sciences and Humanities: Implications for Inclusive Development.  19 February 2019. Presented a paper titled ‘Fast tracking impact of social sciences and humanities research in Africa: lessons, challenges and prospects’.
  4. 17th International Conference on Scientometrics & Informetrics. 2-5 September 2019. Presented paper titled ‘Can Bradford’s law be applied to determine core subject terms in a subject domain?
  5. International Conference on Information Literacy (ICIL), 23-27 September 2019, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa. Presented paper: The changing face of information literacy: knowledge visualization and mapping of the IL literature, 1975 to 2018

2018

  1. 19th LIASA Annual Conference, 8 – 11 October 2018, Cape Town, South Africa. Panel member on the Development of a Four-Year Bachelors degree in Information Science, University of South Africa
  2. 19th Information Studies Conference, 12 – 14 September 2018, Richards Bay, South Africa. Co-presented a paper: Research on information and communication technologies in Agriculture in Kenya: a bibliometrics study, 1991 – 2017
  3. 2nd International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management, Nairobi, Kenya, 21 – 24 August 2018. Co-presented two papers:
    1. … with Ocholla, DN. Determining the core concepts of information and communication technologies in the context of information and knowledge management research, 1998-2017
    2. … with Kwanya, T. Application of information systems theories in library and information science research: a content analysis
  4. KESSA-AISA-Multi-Media University of Kenya Joint 8th International Interdisciplinary Conference, Nairobi, Kenya, 27 – 30 June 2018. Presented a paper: A bibliometrics meta-analysis study of the influence of research on economic development in sub-Saharan Africa
  5. XXIII SCECSAL Conference, Entebbe, Uganda, 23 – 28 April 2018. Co-presented a paper: Technological advances in library work as a catalyst for changing roles of librarians at the University of Nairobi
  6. Second Research Indaba of the Department of Information Science, University of South Africa, 15 – 16 March 2018. Presented a paper: Transcendent frontiers in LIS Research
  7. Regional Editors’ Workshop: Scholarly Journal Best Publishing practices, and using online publishing software. Workshop organized by the African Journals Online, Kampala, Uganda, 12 – 15 February 2018.

2017

  1. 18th Annual Department of Information Studies Conference, 6-8 September 2017, Richards Bay, South Africa. Presented two papers:
      1. with Hosea Chumba & Jackson Alunga – Scholarly publishing of medical informatics research in Africa: a content analysis of the WoS-indexed publciations, 1971-2016

      2. with Villary Atieno Abok – A bibliometrics analysis of the research output of academic staff in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Technology at the Technical University of Kenya, 2012-2016

  2. The 8th biennial DISSAnet Conference of the Progress in Library and Information Science in Southern Africa (ProLISSA), 13-17 March 2017, Pretoria. Presented two papers:
      1. with Isaiah Munyoro - Are SADC parliamentary websites content compliant to the IPU guidelines for parliamentary websites?
      2. with Cyprian I Ugwu & Jonas I Ezema - Application of Bradford’s Law to Library and Information Science research

  3. 1st International Conference of the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria, 25-30 June 2017. Presented a keynote speech titled Navigating through the rising metric tide of the 21st Century: survival tips for the academic librarian in sub-Saharan Africa

2016

  1. Fourth CODESRIA Conference on Electronic Publishing and Dissemination. 19 March to 1 April 2016, Dakar, Senegal. Presented two papers:
      1. Open research data: implications for scholarly publishing in Sub-Saharan Africa

      2.  …with IJ Ezema: Africa in the Open Access environment: advancing research productivity to global visibility

  2. 17th Annual Department of Information Studies Conference, 7-9 September 2016, Richards Bay, South Africa. Presented two papers:
      1. …with MC Fombad: Knowledge management for development: rethinking the trends of knowledge management in South Africa

      2. …with VG Jiyane: Partnerships towards the provision of school library services in South Africa: the role of schools, Department of Education and Institutions of higher education, using Bhekinkosi Primary School as a case study

      3. 18th International Conference on Cybermetrics, Scientometrics, Informetrics, and Bibliometrics, Barcelona, Spain, 3-4 October 2016. Presented paper entitled Altmetrics of South African Journals: Implications for Scholarly Impact of South African Research on Social Media

      4. First Annual KESSA-Multimedia University of Kenya Joint International and Multidisciplinary Conference, 22-25 June 2016, Multimedia University of Kenya Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya. Presented a paper entitled: Fifty (50) years on: an informetrics study of Kenya’s health problems since independence

      5. 1st Annual Conference on Information and Knowledge Management, Nairobi, Kenya, 24-26 August 2016. Presented paper: Towards a knowledge specialization index for sub-Saharan Africa: an informetrics study

      6. Unisa LIS Research Symposium, Unisa, Pretoria, 28-29 July 2016. Presented paper entitled Research dissemination through social media platforms: what are the implications?

2015

  1. The European Conference of Literature and Librarianship (LIBEURO2015), 13-16 July 2015, Brighton, United Kingdom

  2. 16th Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand, South Africa, 2nd – 4th 2015
      1. Keynote address: Assessing Relevance of Knowledge Produced in the Academe: A case Study of the Department of Information Science at UNISA

      2. …. with Ngoepe, M & Mhlongo, MA. A case of Identity Crisis? Indigenous Knowledge Through the Eyes of Subject Organizers in Academic Libraries in South Africa

  3. 15th International Conference on Scientometrics & Informetrics, Istanbul. Turkey, 29th June – 4th July 2015. Co-presented paper with Jan Maluleka entitled Factors Influencing Research Collaboration in LIS Schools in South Africa
  4. 6th Annual Faculty of Arts Conference, University of Zululand, South Africa, 19-21 October 2015. Presented paper entitled Maximizing research impact through ResearchGate: the story of selected countries in sub-Saharan Africa

  5. Unisa Open Scholarship Seminar, Bamboo Hall, Kgorong Building, Muckleneuk Campus, Unisa 19 October 2015. Presented paper entitled Research Data sharing: implications for scholarship in sub-Saharan Africa

  6. Eigth biennial DISSAnet Conference: Progress in Library and Information Science in Southern Africa (PROLISSA), 9-13 March 2015

2014

  1. 15th Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand, South Africa, 3rd – 5th September 2014
    1. … with Maluleka, J. Trends and Patterns of Research Collaboration in Library and Information Science (LIS) Schools in South Africa, 1991 – 2012

    2. … with Ngoepe, M & Maluleka, J. Research Collaboration in Archives and Records Management Across and Beyond Universities in Africa: An Informetrics Analysis

    3. … with Rotich, D. Research Productivity and Visibility of Academic Staff at the College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Kenya Between 2002 and 2012

    4. Keynote address: Are Altmetrics a Panacea for Citation Delays? A Critical View of the Journey of the Citing Document Through the Research Process

  2. Unisa LIS research symposium, Florida, South Africa, 24-25 July 2014 – Welcoming remarks and Chaired a panel of academics in the discussion on LIS education and training

  3. 80th IFLA General Conference and Assembly, Lyon, France, 16th – 22nd August 2014

  4. The South African Society of Archivists, 9-11 July 2014, Nelspruit, South Africa. Presented keynote address: Public programming in the archival literature: revelations from a content analysis of the subject matter

  5. Fourth Annual Conference of the Faculty of Communication and Information Science, National University of Science and Technology, on Indigenous Knowledge and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Africa, 25th – 29th August 2014. Presented paper entitled Social media and research: how does ResearchGate’s coverage of South African universities’ research compare with the Web of Science and the Webometrics ranking of universities?

2013

  1. Progress in Library and Information Science in Southern Africa: Seventh biennial DISSAnet Conference, St Georges Hotel, 7-8 March 2013.

  2. 14th Department of Information Studies Conference, University of Zululand, South Africa, 3-5 September 2013. Presented the following papers:
      1. An informetrics view of the relationship between Internet ethics, computer ethics and cyberethics

  3. 22nd ESARBICA General Conference on “Archives in the 21st Century and Beyond: Historical and technological paradigm shift”, Safarai Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya, 3 to 7 June 2013. Co-presented a paper entitled: “An informetrics study of the cited references in archival research in sub-Saharan Africa: a measure of the archival researchers’ preferences?”

  4. 14th International Society of Scientometrics and Informetrics (ISSI), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria, 15 to 19 July 2013.

  5. Indigenous Knowledge Systems International Conference on “information, records and archives in a knowledge society”: Third International Conference of the Faculty of Communication and Information Science, National University of Science and Technology, Rainbow Hotel, Victoria Falls, 5-9 August 2013.

2012

  1. 4th UNISA Children’s Reading Conference, Pretoria, South Africa, 11-12 September 2012. Delivered closing remarks and participated in the Storytelling Festival held and co-hosted with Royal Bafokeng nation.

  2. 12th Annual DIS conference, University of Zululand, 10-12 September 2012. Co-presented a paper: Does conference participation result in high research output? A correlational analysis of South Africa’s conference papers and Research Articles, 2002-2011

  3. Archival Conference on Archiving and Digital Continuity in the context of E-Government in Sub-Saharan Africa, University of South Africa, Pretoria (Main Campus), 11 - 13 July 2012. Chaired a session.

  4. XXth SCECSAL conference, Laico Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya, 4-8 June 2012. Co-presented a paper: Serving remote users in selected public university libraries in Kenya: discussions with section heads

  5. Indigenous Knowledge Systems Conference, National University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe, 28-31 August 2012. Co-presented paper: Which is the preferred label for knowledge of traditional and indigenous communities? A citation analysis perspective

  6. International Council of Archives Conference, Brisbane, Australia, 20-24 August 2012. Co-presented a paper: Trends, patterns, challenges and type of archival research in sub-Saharan Africa: an informetrics analysis, 1981-2010

  7. ASAIB Annual conference, National Library of South Africa, 10 May 2012.

2011

  1. 11th Annual DIS conference, University of Zululand, 14-15 September 2011. Co-presented three papers:
      1. …with Maluleka, J. M&D students’ preferences for references and referencing in LIS research in South Africa.

      2. …with Makhubela, S & Dube, L. LIS education and training in South Africa: who are our students?

      3. …with Mnekeni-Saurombe, N, Burger, M, Mokwatlo, IK, Maluleka, J. Developing a glossary of terms using informetric approaches: methodological issues

  2. First Annual Conference of the Faculty of Communication and Information Science at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) on Indigenous Knowledge and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Africa, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 23-24 August 2011. Presented a paper in collaboration with Prof P Ngulube entitled “What is in a name? Using informetric techniques to conceptualize the knowledge of traditional and indigenous communities

  3. South African Society of Archivists Conference, Sunnyside, Pretoria South Africa, 14-15 July 2011. Chaired a session.

  4. 13th ISSI (International Society for Scientometrics and Informetrics), Durban, South Africa, 4-8 July 2011. Presented two papers and poster paper and chaired two sessions:
      1. ...with Ani, EO. A measure of research productivity in Nigerian Universities: a bibliometric analysis

      2. How is ‘knowledge management similar to or different from information management? An informetrics perspective.

      3. ...with Ocholla, D.N. and Ocholla, L. What is the growth and scientific impact of global warming research, 2008-2010?

  5. XXI ESARBICA Conference on Access to Information: Archives and Records in Support of Public Sector Reform in Context, Maputo, 8 -10 June 2011. Delivered two papers:
      1. … with Ngoepe, M. The protection of information bill and access to information in South Africa: an informetric study of the media coverage

      2. … with Mokwatlo, KI. How does LIS perceive records management? A trend and core/periphery model analyses

      3. 6th Biennial DISSAnet Conference, Pretoria, South Africa, 9-11 March 2011. Delivered a paper entitled “Job functions and requirements for knowledge managers: lessons for LIS schools in South Africa”.

 

Conference proceedings

2018

  1. Otiango, MK & Onyancha, OB. Technological advances in library work as a catalyst for changing roles of librarians at the University of Nairobi. In: GK Mulindwa, EN Haumba & RS Buwule (eds). Proceedings of the XXIII Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations. Kampala: ULA, pp 181-204.

  2. Nwagwu, WE & Onyancha, OB. Webometrics of Think Tanks in sub-Saharan Africa. In: Conference Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Scientometrics and Informetrics, 16-20 October 2017. Wuhan: Wuhan University, pp. 1519-1533

2015

  1. Maluleka, JR & Onyancha, OB. Factors Influencing Research Collaboration in LIS Schools in South Africa. In Salah, A.A., Y. Tonta, A.A. Akdag Salah, C. Sugimoto, U. Al (Eds.), Proceedings of ISSI 2015 Istanbul: 15th International Society of Scientometrics and Informetrics Conference, Istanbul, Turkey, 29 June to 3 July, 2015, Bogaziçi University Printhouse.

2011

  1. Onyancha, O.B. How is ‘knowledge management similar to or different from information management? An informetrics perspective. In: E Noyons, P Ngulube, and J Leta (eds). Proceedings of ISSI 2011: the 13th Conference of the International Society for Scientometrics and Informetrics, Durban, South Africa, 4-8 July, pp: 626-637 [Research in Progress paper].

  2. Ani, O.E. & Onyancha, O.B. A measure of research productivity of Nigerian universities: a bibliometric analysis. In: E Noyons, P Ngulube, and J Leta (eds). Proceedings of ISSI 2011: the 13th Conference of the International Society for Scientometrics and Informetrics, Durban, South Africa, 4-8 July, pp: 54-65.

  3. Ocholla, D.N., Onyancha, O.B. & Ocholla, L. What is the growth and scientific impact of global warming research, 2008-2010? In: E Noyons, P Ngulube, and J Leta (eds). Proceedings of ISSI 2011: the 13th Conference of the International Society for Scientometrics and Informetrics, Durban, South Africa, 4-8 July, pp: 1040-1042 [Poster paper].

Professional positions, fellowships & awards

AWARDS

 

  1. Chancellor’s Award for Research Excellence, University of South Africa, 21 April 2023 (South African Rands 100,000.00).
  2. National Research Foundation (South Africa) C2 rated researcher, 2012- Present (South African Rands 30,000.00 per year)
  3. Competitive Programme for Rated Research Grant, National Research Foundation, South Africa, 2021-2023 (South African Rands 897,000.000)
  4. Research Professor Grant, University of South Africa, 2017 – 2021 (South African Rands 300,000.00)
  5. Research Professor Grant, University of South Africa, 2022 – 2025 (South African Rands 300,000.00)

Professional membership

  1. Chair, Task Team: Unisa Research Excellence Framework, 2017-1018; 2019-2020
  2. Member, Standing Committee on Scholarly Publishing in South Africa (CSPiSA), 2021-
  3. Member, Expert Group, Publication Quality Framework Project, South Africa
  4. Member, Expert Group, CODESRIA’s project on Africa Citation Index, 2016-2019
  5. Member, Kenya Library Association
  6. Member, Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA)
  7. Member, South African Society of Archivists (SASA)
  8. Member, Southern African Research & Innovation Management Association
  9. Life Member, International Society of Scientometrics and Informetrics (ISSI)

Projects

  1. Knowledge Mobilization for Maximized Research Impact in Centres of Research Excellence in Selected Countries in sub-Saharan Africa
  2. Utilization of Research by Cancer Caregivers in the Gauteng Province, South Africa

A. Self

  • An informetric analysis of HIV/AIDS research in eastern and southern Africa, 1980-2005. A thesis prepared for the award of Doctor of Philosophy degree in Library and Information Science, University of Zululand, South Africa, 2007.
  • A bibliometric analysis of the corruption literature on Africa, 1990-2001. A dissertation prepared for the award of Masters in Library and Information Science, University of Zululand, South Africa, 2002
  • The implementation of the 8-4-4 system of education and its repercussions on the Kenyan society. Bsc in Information Sciences project. Eldoret: Moi University, 1992.

B. Students

Masters

  • Matanji, Peter. In-house indexing of periodical literature: case study of university libraries in Kenya (Completed in 2012)
  • Wachira, Mary Njeri. Remote user services in selected public university libraries in Kenya (completed in 2013)
  • Waithaka, Mercy. Internet use among University students in Kenya: a case study of University of Nairobi (Completed in 2014)
  • Maluleka, Jan. Factors influencing　collaboration in library and information science research in South Africa (Completed in 2014)
  • Kimani, H. Information literacy skills and competences among first year undergraduate students at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (Status: Completed in 2014)
  • Mungai, Gladys C.N. Tacit Knowledge Management in Public Institutions in Kenya: A Case Of The Kenya Institute For Public Policy Research And Analysis (KIPPRA) Nairobi (Status: Completed in 2014)

PhD

  • Ani, OE. Accessibility and utilization of electronic information resources for research and its effect on productivity of academic staff in Nigeria and South African universities (Status: Completed 2013)

Current and on-going research projects

Self-initiated projects

  • Onyancha, O.B. & Ngulube, P. Mixed methods research in selected South African journals of education, 2002-2008
  • Onyancha, O.B. Subject specialization index of Sub-Saharan African countries: an informetric analysis of the fields of research foci
  • Onyancha, O.B. Public programming in the archival literature: revelations from a content analysis of the subject matter
  • Onyancha, O.B. Assessing research relevance in the academe: a case study of the Department of Information Science at UNISA.

Completed Student Projects/Theses/Dissertations

1.   Masters

  • Matanji, Peter. In-house indexing of periodical literature: case study of university libraries in Kenya (Completed in 2012)
  • Wachira, Mary Njeri. Remote user services in selected public university libraries in Kenya (completed in 2013)
  • Waithaka, Mercy. Internet use among University students in Kenya: a case study of University of Nairobi (Completed in 2014)
  • Maluleka, Jan. Factors influencing collaboration in library and information science research in South Africa (Completed in 2014)
  • Kimani, H. Information literacy skills and competences among first year undergraduate students at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (Status: Completed in 2014)
  • Mungai, Gladys C.N. Tacit Knowledge Management in Public Institutions in Kenya: A Case Of The Kenya Institute For Public Policy Research And Analysis (KIPPRA) Nairobi (Status: Completed in 2014)
  • Otiango, Mildred Khayoko. The changing roles of academic librarians at the University of Nairobi and its constituent college libraries in the information age (status: completed 2016)
  • Ashilungu, M.  Collection development practices at Institutions of higher learning in Namibia with special reference to electronic resources: a case of the University of Namibia Library (Status: Completed 2017)
  • Oluwaseun, OB. Remote access to and use of library electronic resources at the National Open University of Nigeria (Status: Completed 2018)
  • Rabatseta, B. Adoption and use of social media by academic libraries in South Africa (Status: Completed 2020)
  • Chiya, K. The role of user education programmes in information literacy skills and competencies of first-year students at North West University (Vaal Triangle Campus) (Status: Completed 2020)
  • Bangani, S. A bibliometric study of the research impact of the National Research Foundation-rated researchers in the North-West University, South Africa (2006 - 2017) (Status: Completed 2020)
  • Katsirizika, E. Utilisation of electronic books (e-books) by postgraduate library and information science (LIS) students and librarians at the University of South Africa Library (Status: Completed 2020)
  • Sithole, MN. Knowledge Sharing Practices in the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. (Status: Completed 2020)

2. PhD

  • Ani, OE. Accessibility and utilization of electronic information resources for research and its effect on productivity of academic staff in Nigeria and South African universities (Status: Completed 2013)
  • Katebire, Dennis Asiimwe. Modelling information access and flow for e-governance in Uganda’s local governments (status: completed 2016)
  • Gichohi, Paul Maku. The role of public libraries in the development of small scale business enterprises in the Meru County, Kenya (status: completed 2016)
  • Mutisya, F. Assessment of the quality of international court libraries:  a case study of the African Union Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights Library (status: completed 2018).
  • Asante, E. Total quality management (TQM) in [academic libraries] in Ghana (status: completed 2019).
  • Mensah, M. Adoption and use of social media technologies at academic libraries in Ghana (Status: completed 2020)
  •  Waithaka, M. Acceptance and adoption of open access scholarly publishing in selected public universities in Kenya (Status: completed 2020)
  • Chiparausha, B. Application of social media in library operations and services at academic libraries Zimbabwe. (Status: completed 2020)