TOGO
Date of establishment: April 27, 1960
Brief history:
Pre-colonial period: The territory of present-day Togo was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Ewe, Mina, Kabye, and others. The region was a center of trade and culture, particularly along the coast, which was known as the “Slave Coast” due to the transatlantic slave trade that took place from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The area had its own kingdoms and chieftaincies, such as the Ewe Kingdoms and the Mina traders, who engaged in commerce with European traders. These societies were well-organized and had rich cultural traditions.
Colonization: In 1884, the area of present-day Togo became a German protectorate after King Mlapa III of Togo signed a treaty with the German explorer Gustav Nachtigal. This marked the beginning of German Togoland, which was established during the period of European colonization in Africa following the Berlin Conference of 1884–1885. German Togoland was run as a German colony until the end of the First World War. The Germans introduced infrastructure projects and cash crops like cocoa and coffee, but their rule was also marked by harsh labor practices and exploitation.
Anglo-French administration: After World War I, German Togoland was divided between France and the United Kingdom under a League of Nations mandate, which was later converted into a United Nations Trust Territory after World War II. The British-administered portion, British Togoland, was integrated into the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana) following a 1956 plebiscite. The French-administered portion, French Togoland, remained under French control but began moving toward autonomy.
Independence: On April 27, 1960, French Togoland gained independence and became the independent state of the Republic of Togo. Sylvanus Olympio became the first president of Togo. Olympio was a key figure in Togo’s independence movement and sought to establish a strong, independent nation. However, his presidency was cut short when he was assassinated in 1963 during a military coup, marking the beginning of a long period of political instability in the country.
Political Instability: Following Olympio’s assassination, Togo experienced a series of coups and changes in government. In 1967, Gnassingbé Eyadéma seized power through a military coup and established a one-party state under the Rally of the Togolese People (RPT). Eyadéma ruled Togo with an iron fist for 38 years, becoming Africa’s longest-serving head of state until his death in 2005. His rule was characterized by political repression, human rights abuses, and the suppression of opposition.
21st century: After Gnassingbé Eyadéma’s death in 2005, his son Faure Gnassingbé was installed as president with the support of the military, leading to widespread protests and international condemnation. Despite the controversy, Faure Gnassingbé was later elected in contested elections and has remained in power, leading to ongoing allegations of authoritarianism and electoral fraud. Togo has been marked by political instability and protests against the long-time rule of the Gnassingbé family. Although some reforms have been introduced, including a reduction in presidential term limits, the political situation remains complex, with the opposition accusing the government of perpetuating dynastic rule.
Present: Togo remains a state with significant challenges in terms of democracy, human rights, and political freedom. The country is often criticized for having non-independent institutions that favor the ruling party.
International abbreviation: TG
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the official currency of Togo, as well as seven other West African countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, and Senegal. The currency is issued by the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), which serves the eight member countries of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU).
The CFA franc is pegged to the euro (EUR) at a fixed exchange rate, which has been maintained at 1 EUR = 655.957 XOF since the euro’s introduction in 1999. This peg is backed by the French Treasury.
Coins in circulation are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 250, and 500 francs. The lower denominations (1, 5, and 10 francs) are less commonly used due to their low value. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs.
Internet domain: .tg
Dialing code: +228
Time zone: GMT 0
Geography:
Togo is a small West African country with a diverse range of geographical features. In the south, Togo has a short but significant coastline along the Gulf of Guinea, part of the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal area is known for its sandy beaches, lagoons, and fishing villages. The capital city, Lomé, is located on the coast and serves as the country’s major port and economic hub.
In the northern part of the country, there are several mountainous regions, including the Togo Mountains, which run roughly southwest to northeast through central Togo. These mountains are part of the larger Atakora Range that extends into neighboring Benin. The highest peak in Togo is Mount Agou (Pic d’Agou), which is located near the border with Ghana. The Akwapim-Togo Ranges also extend into Togo, forming part of the boundary between the Volta Region of Ghana and Togo.
The central and northern parts of Togo are characterized by a mix of savanna and more humid areas. The central region, known as the Plateaux Region, has a relatively more fertile and hilly landscape, suitable for agriculture. The northern regions transition into a drier savanna, where the climate is more arid, especially as one approaches the border with Burkina Faso. This region is home to both pastoralists and subsistence farmers who grow crops such as millet and sorghum.
Togo has several important rivers, the most significant of which are the Mono River and the Oti River. The Mono River flows from the Togo Mountains to the Gulf of Guinea, forming part of the border with Benin in its lower reaches. The Oti River, which originates in Burkina Faso, flows through northern Togo and eventually joins the Volta River in Ghana.
In addition to rivers, Togo has a number of lakes and lagoons. Lake Togo, located near the coast in the southern part of the country, is the largest lake in Togo. It is a shallow, brackish lagoon connected to the Gulf of Guinea by a narrow channel and is known for its fishing and tourism.
Highest peak: Mont Agou 986 m a.s.l. (3 235 feet above sea level)
The peak is located in the Togo Mountains, which are located in the north of the country. Mount Agou and the Togo Mountains are characterized by their mountainous landscape and are important to the country’s ecosystems and biodiversity.
Climate:
The Atlantic coast of southern Togo experiences a humid tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season in this region typically runs from April to October. During this period, the area receives significant rainfall, especially between June and September, when rainfall peaks. The average temperatures during the rainy season range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with high humidity levels.
The dry season on the southern coast lasts from November to March, during which time rainfall is much reduced. Temperatures remain warm, averaging between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The Harmattan winds, which blow from the Sahara, can bring drier and cooler air, particularly from December to February, occasionally causing temperatures to drop slightly.
In the central and northern regions of Togo, the climate transitions from a tropical savanna in the central part to a semi-arid climate in the far north. The central regions, including areas like Atakpamé and Sokodé, experience a similar seasonal pattern to the south but with less rainfall overall. The rainy season here also runs from May to October, with temperatures typically ranging from 22°C to 35°C (72°F to 95°F). The highest temperatures are usually recorded just before the onset of the rains.
The northern regions of Togo, including areas like Kara and Dapaong, have a semi-arid climate. The rainy season is also from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in August. During the rainy season, temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The dry season in the north, from November to April, is longer and much drier than in the south. During this period, daytime temperatures can be very high, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), but nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes falling to around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), especially during the Harmattan season when the dry, dusty winds from the Sahara dominate.
Fauna and flora:
Togo is home to a variety of wildlife, though it has been impacted by deforestation, hunting, and habitat loss over the years. Among the mammals found in Togo are elephants, though their numbers have significantly decreased due to poaching and habitat fragmentation. Leopards and hyenas are also present, but they are increasingly rare outside protected areas. Togo has buffaloes, antelopes, and a variety of monkeys.
Primates such as the black-and-white colobus monkey and patas monkey can be seen in forests and protected areas. The western black-and-white colobus (Colobus vellerosus) is also present. These monkeys are commonly seen in forested areas and national parks, such as Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, which is one of the largest protected areas in Togo.
Togo is rich in birdlife, with numerous species inhabiting its diverse ecosystems. Some of the notable birds include parrots, eagles, and pelicans. Kingfishers, herons, and weavers are among the common bird species that inhabit the country’s wetlands, savannas, and forests.
Thanks to its coastline along the Gulf of Guinea, Togo has a variety of marine life. The coastal waters support fisheries that are important for local livelihoods. Fish species such as tuna, sardines, and mackerel are key to the local economy, providing both food and income for coastal communities. Additionally, the coastal lagoons and estuaries are breeding grounds for various fish and other marine species.
Togo’s vegetation includes a mix of forest types and savannahs. In the south, remnants of tropical rainforests can be found, particularly in the Plateau Region, where the climate is more humid. These forests are home to a variety of plant and animal species, although much of the original rainforest has been cleared for agriculture.
In the coastal areas, mangrove forests play a crucial role in protecting the coastline from erosion and providing habitat for fish and bird species. These mangroves are particularly important for the coastal ecosystem, acting as nurseries for fish and supporting biodiversity.
The interior and northern regions of Togo are predominantly covered by savannah vegetation. This includes grassy plains with scattered trees and shrubs, such as baobabs and acacias.
Agriculture:
Agriculture is a key sector in Togo’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing to both local food security and export earnings. The country produces a wide variety of crops, including maize, cassava, rice, yams, groundnuts (peanuts), sweet potatoes, millet, sorghum, beans, and palm oil. Maize and cassava are the staple foods and are grown widely across the country. Yams are also an essential staple, particularly in the central and northern regions.
Togo is known for its production of coffee and cocoa, which are among the country’s most important export crops. Coffee and cocoa are primarily grown in the more humid regions of southern Togo, where the climate is suitable for these crops. Both crops are cultivated mainly by smallholder farmers and are crucial sources of income for many rural communities.
Palm oil is another significant agricultural product in Togo. It is used extensively in local cuisine and is also exported. Palm oil is produced from oil palms grown on both plantations and smaller farms. The oil is used domestically in cooking and in the production of various food products, as well as in the manufacture of soaps and cosmetics.
Cotton is one of Togo’s major cash crops and is grown primarily in the central and northern regions of the country. It is a critical export commodity and plays a significant role in the rural economy. The cotton sector provides income for a large number of smallholder farmers and contributes to the country’s export revenues.
Pastoralism is also an important livelihood in some parts of Togo, particularly in the northern regions. Cattle, sheep, and goats are raised for meat, milk, and hides. Cattle are especially valued not only for their economic importance but also for their role in traditional ceremonies and rituals. Livestock farming is often integrated with crop production, with animals providing manure for fertilizing fields and serving as a form of savings and wealth.
Fishing and seafood are important components of the diet in coastal and riverine communities. The country’s coastline along the Gulf of Guinea provides access to marine fisheries, while inland rivers and lakes also support freshwater fishing. Fish is a vital source of protein for the local population, and fishing contributes to food security and livelihoods in these areas.
Extraction of natural resources:
Togo is known primarily for its phosphate mining, which is the country’s most significant extractive industry. Togo’s phosphate reserves are among the largest in the world, and the mineral is a crucial industrial resource. Phosphates are mainly used as a raw material for the production of fertilizers, making them an important export product for the country. The majority of Togo’s phosphate production is concentrated around the Kpogamé and Hahotoé mines, with the processing and export operations centered in the port city of Kpémé. Phosphate exports are a major contributor to Togo’s economy.
Gold mining also takes place in Togo, but it is conducted on a much smaller scale compared to phosphate mining. Gold is primarily mined by artisanal and small-scale miners, often using rudimentary methods. These mining activities are found in various locations across the country, particularly in the northern and central regions. Gold extraction provides an important source of income for many rural communities, but it also poses environmental and safety challenges due to the informal nature of the operations.
Togo has some potential for diamond mining, although this sector is not as developed as phosphate or gold mining. Diamond deposits have been identified in certain areas, particularly in the Plateaux Region near the border with Ghana. However, diamond mining activities in Togo are often conducted illegally or informally, which complicates efforts to regulate the industry and ensure that it contributes to the formal economy. The potential for legal and large-scale diamond mining exists, but it has yet to be fully realized.
In addition to these resources, Togo has potential deposits of other minerals, including manganese, limestone, and iron ore, though these have not been exploited to the same extent as phosphates. The country also has reserves of limestone, which are used in cement production, an important industry for Togo’s construction sector.
Industry:
Phosphate mining and its processing are key branches of Togo’s industrial sector. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of phosphates, and this mineral is central to Togo’s export economy, particularly in the form of raw materials and fertilizers. The processing of phosphate into fertilizers and other industrial products is a significant part of the industrial landscape, with facilities primarily located near the mining sites and coastal areas like Kpémé.
The food and beverage industry is another important sector. It includes the processing of staple food products such as flour, sugar, and edible oils, as well as beverages like beer and soft drinks. The processing of agricultural products such as maize, cassava, palm oil, and cocoa is central to this industry, supporting both domestic consumption and export markets. The palm oil sector is particularly notable, as it serves both the local market and the regional export market.
Togo also has a textile and clothing industry, although it is relatively small compared to other sectors. The industry involves the production of textiles, including traditional woven fabrics like kente and batik, as well as the manufacturing of clothing. The textile industry is important for cultural expression and local economies, but it faces competition from imported textiles.
The construction industry and the production of building materials are growing sectors in Togo, driven by urbanization and infrastructure development. The expansion of cities like Lomé and the implementation of infrastructure projects, such as road construction, housing, and public buildings, have increased demand for construction materials. This includes cement, bricks, tiles, and other building products.
The wood industry in Togo includes the processing of timber and the production of wood products such as furniture, building materials, and wooden handicrafts. The country has forested areas, particularly in the Plateau Region, where timber is harvested. However, deforestation and the sustainable management of forests are ongoing challenges. The wood industry is important for both domestic use and export, particularly in the form of furniture and wood carvings that are part of Togo’s artisanal heritage.
In addition to these sectors, Togo has small-scale industries producing cement, chemicals, plastics, and metal products. The industrial sector in Togo is still developing, with significant potential for growth, particularly in areas like agro-processing, light manufacturing, and construction materials.
Services and other areas of the economy: transport
Natural and historical attractions: the Batammariba area, the Alédjo Reserve, Fazao Malfakassa Park, and Lomé and Togoville cities
Togo’s Atlantic coastline, particularly around the capital Lomé, is known for its beautiful beaches. These beaches, such as Lomé Beach and Aného Beach, are popular with both locals and tourists, offering opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
The country is also home to several protected areas and national parks, which are key attractions for nature lovers. Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, located in the central part of Togo, is the largest national park in the country and is known for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, savannas, and mountains. The park provides opportunities for wildlife watching, bird watching, hiking, and trekking.
Kéran National Park, situated in the northern region of Togo, is another significant protected area. It is known for its savanna landscapes and wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and various antelopes.
In addition to its natural attractions, Togo has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Tourists can visit vibrant markets such as the Lomé Grand Market (Marché de Lomé), where a wide range of local products, including crafts, textiles, and traditional foods, are sold.
Togo is home to historic sites that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. This includes traditional African villages where visitors can observe and participate in local customs, crafts, and ceremonies. For example, the Tata Somba houses in the northern part of Togo are traditional fortified dwellings that are unique to the region and are part of the cultural landscape of the Tamberma people.
The country also has colonial-era monuments and buildings, particularly in Lomé and other coastal towns, that provide insights into Togo’s history during the period of German and French colonization. Notable sites include the German Cathedral and the Governor’s Palace in Lomé. Additionally, the Slave House in Aného is an important site that reflects the region’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.
Togo’s Koutammakou region, located in the northeastern part of the country, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Batammariba people. This area is known for its distinctive mud tower houses, which are both functional and symbolic, representing the harmony between the Batammariba people and their environment.
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Form of government: presidential republic
The main body of executive power in Togo is the president, who serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The president is elected by popular vote in general elections for a five-year term and may be re-elected. There is no limit on the number of terms a president can serve, following constitutional changes that have allowed for extended presidential tenure. The president has significant authority, including the power to appoint the prime minister and other ministers, who form the government.
Legislative power is vested in a unicameral parliament, known as the National Assembly (Assemblée Nationale). The National Assembly is composed of 91 deputies who are elected for five-year terms. These deputies represent the various constituencies across the country. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the actions of the executive branch, though in practice, the executive branch often exerts significant influence over the legislature.
The government of Togo consists of the president and the Council of Ministers, who are appointed by the president. The president has the authority to define the broad direction of government policy, and the ministers are responsible for implementing these policies within their respective ministries.
Togo has a judicial system that is nominally independent, though there have been concerns about the extent of its independence in practice. The judicial system includes various levels of courts, with the Supreme Court being the highest court of appeal. The Constitutional Court is a key institution that oversees compliance with the constitution, including the legality of elections, the protection of civil rights, and the interpretation of constitutional law.
Togo is administratively divided into five regions: Maritime, Plateaux, Centrale, Kara, and Savanes. Each region is further subdivided into prefectures and then into cantons. The administrative divisions are managed by officials appointed by the central government, but there is also a system of regional and local self-government that has powers within a decentralized framework. This decentralized system allows for some degree of local governance, but in practice, the central government retains significant control over regional and local affairs.
Capital city: Lomé
Lomé, the capital and largest city of Togo, is situated in the southwestern part of the country on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, near the border with Ghana. The city holds strategic importance as Togo’s main port, serving as the primary gateway for imports and exports. Lomé’s port is one of the deepest in West Africa, enabling it to accommodate large ships, making it a crucial hub for maritime trade and logistics in the region.
Lomé is known for its rich culture and history, evident in its architecture, markets, and cultural institutions. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Grand Marché, one of West Africa’s largest and most vibrant markets, where a wide variety of goods, including traditional fabrics, crafts, spices, and everyday items, are sold. The market is a lively cultural experience, offering insights into the daily life and trade practices of the Togolese people. Another notable site is the Lomé Cathedral, built during the German colonial period, with its distinctive neo-Gothic architecture making it a significant historical and religious landmark. The Togo National Museum, located in the Palais des Congrès, provides a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage with exhibits on traditional art, crafts, historical artifacts, and ethnographic collections.
Lomé also features the Independence Monument, a symbol of national pride that commemorates Togo’s independence from French colonial rule in 1960. The city’s coastline offers scenic beaches along the Gulf of Guinea, where residents and tourists can relax and enjoy the ocean. The beaches, lined with coconut palms, provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center. Additionally, the Fetish Market, known for its unique cultural significance, is a place where traditional healers and Vodou practitioners buy and sell ingredients used in rituals and traditional medicine.
The city has a population of about 2 043 000.
Area: 56 785 km2 (21 925 square miles)
Population: 8 849 000 (2022 estimate)
Togo is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, with the Ewe being the largest ethnic group, predominantly located in the southern part of the country. The Kabye (also spelled Kabré) are another significant ethnic group, primarily found in the central and northern regions. The Tem (or Kotokoli) are also a major ethnic group in the central part of Togo, particularly around the city of Sokodé. In addition to these, there are several smaller ethnic groups, including the Mina, Gurma, Moba, Bassari, and others, each with their own languages, cultures, and traditions.
French is the official language of Togo and is widely used in government, education, and the media. It serves as a lingua franca that unites the various ethnic groups. In addition to French, many Togolese speak one or more of the country’s numerous local languages. Ewe and Kabye are among the most widely spoken local languages, and they are used in daily communication, particularly within their respective ethnic communities.
Religion in Togo is diverse, with Christianity and Islam being the two major religions. Christianity is the dominant religion, particularly in the southern and central regions, and is represented by various denominations, including Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Evangelical churches. Islam is more prevalent in the northern regions and among certain ethnic groups, such as the Tem (Kotokoli) and Hausa.
In addition to Christianity and Islam, a significant portion of the Togolese population practices traditional African religions. These religions involve the worship of ancestors, spirits, and deities, and they often include rituals, ceremonies, and festivals that are deeply integrated into the cultural life of many communities. There is also a considerable degree of syncretism in Togo, where elements of Christianity or Islam are blended with traditional African beliefs and practices.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 1
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Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba (2004) – The Batammariba tribe lives in the area, and their remarkable mud tower houses have become a symbol of Togo.
National parks: 3
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- Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
- Fosse aux Lions National Park
- Kéran National Park
