Mercy Mpinganjira
Abstract
Digital health is increasingly recognized as a critical enabler of improved healthcare access and equity in Africa. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of digital health service promotion research on the continent, offering a structured overview of scholarly trends, knowledge gaps, and future research directions. Using data extracted from the Scopus database, 83 peer-reviewed documents published between 2012 and 2025 were analyzed through performance analysis, science mapping, and thematic exploration using the Bibliometrix R-package. The findings indicate modest but steady growth in research output, with marked geographical concentration. Despite high international collaboration, the study reveals a limited presence of theoretical frameworks grounded in African cultural and infrastructural realities. Key gaps identified include the underrepresentation of culturally responsive promotional strategies, gender and infrastructure-sensitive approaches and a future research agenda is proposed. This study contributes to theory by systematizing existing literature and highlighting context-specific research needs. Practically, it provides insights to guide policymakers and practitioners in designing inclusive and effective digital health promotion strategies across Africa’s diverse populations, in alignment with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.