African universities play a significant role in knowledge production and dissemination across various fields of study, including African Studies. In Zambia, these institutions are pivotal actors in shaping national and regional policy landscapes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews, targeting a diverse sample from Zambian academia. Data were analysed using statistical software for comprehensive insights into university activities. A notable finding is that over 70% of surveyed universities report engaging in collaborative research projects with international partners, significantly influencing the quality and breadth of knowledge produced. The survey underscores the critical role of African universities in Zambia's broader academic ecosystem, highlighting their active engagement in both local and global knowledge networks. Given the findings, there is a need to enhance institutional collaboration between Zambian universities and international counterparts to foster equitable knowledge exchange and innovation.