The book presents a critical and accessible evaluation of research ethics within African contexts. It reconceptualises ethics as a relational, justice-oriented practice grounded in power dynamics, historical context, and community engagement throughout the research lifecycle. The book examines how dominant, universalised ethical frameworks often fail to adequately address the complexities of post-colonial research environments. It delves into key ethical domains, including power dynamics, informed consent within diverse cultural contexts, community engagement and knowledge co-creation, data collection and management, and publication ethics. Through applied case studies and reflexive insights, the text illustrates how ethical dilemmas arise in actual research settings and proposes context-sensitive approaches for their resolution. It advances a coherent ethical framework that integrates decolonial thought, relational accountability, and practical decision-making while ensuring disciplinary rigour across the research lifecycle. Furthermore, the book provides actionable guidance for conducting ethically responsible, socially just, and contextually responsive research, relevant not only to students, researchers, academics, and practitioners but also to others across various fields, including education, the social sciences, and developmental studies. It is particularly pertinent for individuals involved in community-based and post-colonial research, as well as for ethics committees and institutions seeking context-responsive approaches to ethical governance.
