Togo Facts

Togo, state of West Africa, on the Gulf of Guinea; 57,000 km², 7.9 million residents (2019).Togo borders in the west to Ghana, in the north to Burkina Faso and in the east to Benin and has the south coast to the Atlantic. The capital is Lomé (1.7 million residents, 2012).

Togo Country Flag

Country facts

  • Republic of Togolaise / Republic of Togo
  • Country abbreviation: TG
  • Area: 57 000 km²
  • Population (2019): 7.9 million residents
  • Capital: Lomé
  • Main languages: French, Niger-Congo
  • State: Republic
  • Head of State: Faure Gnassingbé (President)
  • Head of government: vacant
  • Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 672
  • GNI per capita (2018): US $ 650
  • Currency unit: 1 CFA franc = 100 centimes
  • Currency code: XOF
  • Country number (telephony): 228
  • Internet domain name: tg
  • Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
  • National Day: April 27 (Independence Day, 1960)

Nature

  • Land use: forest (16%), agricultural land (44%), other (40%)
  • Highest mountain: Pic Bauman (Mont Agou, 986 m above sea level)

Population

  • Population density (2019): 138 residents per km²
  • Natural population growth (2019): 2.5%; birthrate 34 ‰, death count 9 ‰
  • Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (42%), 15-64 (55%), 65- (3%)
  • Life expectancy (2019): men 60 years, women 61 years
  • Infant mortality (2019): 50 per 1,000 live births
  • Population forecast 2050: US $ 15 million
  • HDI (2017): 0.503 (place 165 of 189)
  • Urbanization rate (2019): 42%
  • Most populous city (2012): Lomé (1.7 million residents)

Business

  • Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (29%), industry (22%), service (49%)
  • Exports of goods (2017): USD 1,046 million
  • Main export products: cotton, phosphate, coffee
  • Main exporting countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, NigerIndia, Burkina Faso, China
  • Imports of goods (2017): USD 1 999 million
  • Main import products: industrial goods, machinery, food
  • Main importing countries: China, France, the Netherlands
  • Railway network (2014): 600 km

Geography of Togo

Location and Borders

Togo is a small country located in West Africa, stretching along the Gulf of Guinea to the south and bordered by Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the west, and Benin to the east. It is one of the smallest countries in the region, covering an area of approximately 56,785 square kilometers (21,925 square miles). Togo has a narrow shape, with the length of the country running from the Atlantic coast in the south to the borders with Burkina Faso in the north, making it one of the most elongated countries in Africa.

Togo’s geographical position provides it with a strategic location in West Africa, with easy access to both land and sea routes, facilitating trade and economic development in the region. The capital city, Lomé, is located on the coast and is the largest city in the country, functioning as the nation’s economic, political, and cultural hub.

Terrain and Landscape

The landscape of Togo is varied and diverse, consisting of coastal plains, savannas, hills, and mountains. The country can be broadly divided into three distinct regions: the coastal plain in the south, the central plateau, and the northern hills. The southern region is characterized by its fertile lowlands and the presence of lagoons, making it ideal for agriculture. The central plateau features savannas and is home to most of Togo’s rural population, while the northern region is more arid and mountainous, with the Atakora Mountains rising to around 986 meters (3,235 feet) at their highest point.

The country’s water resources include rivers like the Mono, which flows from the mountains of Togo into the Gulf of Guinea, and the Oti River, which forms part of the border with Ghana. These rivers, along with several smaller streams and wetlands, provide important resources for both agriculture and the livelihood of communities in Togo.

Water Bodies

Togo’s coastline stretches for about 56 kilometers (35 miles), offering access to the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal strip is vital for the country’s economy, particularly for trade and the fishing industry. In addition to its coastal waters, Togo is home to several inland bodies of water, including the Lake Togo, located near the capital, Lomé. These lakes and rivers are essential for irrigation, transportation, and fishing, which are crucial for the livelihoods of local communities.

Climate of Togo

Tropical Climate

Togo’s climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons that vary by region. The coastal regions experience a humid tropical climate, with high temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature in Lomé, for instance, ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F). The heat is moderated by the presence of coastal breezes, but the humidity remains high throughout the year.

Wet and Dry Seasons

The wet season in Togo runs from April to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between May and July. During this period, the country receives abundant precipitation, particularly in the southern and central regions. The rains are vital for agriculture, providing water for crops such as yams, cassava, maize, and cotton.

From November to March, Togo experiences a dry season, during which the harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara Desert, bring dry, dusty conditions to the northern parts of the country. The dry season is characterized by lower humidity and cooler temperatures, particularly in the central and northern regions. However, the southern regions remain relatively warm and humid during this period.

Natural Disasters

Togo is not as prone to extreme weather events as some other African countries, but it can occasionally be affected by severe flooding during the wet season, particularly in low-lying areas along the coast and near major rivers. The country is also susceptible to droughts, particularly in the northern regions, where agricultural production can be significantly affected by the lack of rainfall.

People of Togo

Population and Demographics

Togo has a population of approximately 8.7 million people, with a density of around 150 people per square kilometer. The population is diverse, consisting of more than 40 different ethnic groups. The largest ethnic groups in Togo are the Ewe, who primarily live in the southern part of the country, and the Kabye, who are concentrated in the northern region. Other significant ethnic groups include the Tem, the Tamberma, and the Bariba. Each ethnic group has its own distinct language, customs, and traditions, contributing to the cultural richness of the nation.

The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 19 years, and a high birth rate. This demographic profile presents both opportunities and challenges, with the need for significant investments in education, healthcare, and job creation to support a growing and youthful population.

Language

Togo has a rich linguistic diversity, with over 40 languages spoken across the country. The official language is French, which is used in government, education, and business. However, most Togolese people speak one or more local languages, with Ewe and Kabyé being the two most widely spoken indigenous languages. Other languages spoken in the country include Tem, Tchamba, and Mina. Many people in urban areas also speak some level of French, but the majority of rural populations rely on their local languages for communication.

Religion

Togo is a religiously diverse country, with Christianity being the largest religion, followed by Islam and indigenous African religions. Christians make up around 30% of the population, with the majority being Roman Catholics and Protestant denominations. Islam is practiced by approximately 20% of the population, mainly concentrated in the northern regions of the country. Traditional African religions, which involve a belief in ancestral spirits and the forces of nature, are practiced by a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas.

Religious tolerance is a characteristic feature of Togo’s society, and different religious groups coexist peacefully, with interfaith marriages and communal ceremonies being common. Religious festivals such as Christmas, Easter, and Islamic holidays are widely celebrated throughout the country.

Urbanization and Rural Life

While Togo has witnessed significant urbanization in recent years, with Lomé being the largest city and economic center, the majority of the population still lives in rural areas. Agriculture remains the backbone of the rural economy, with subsistence farming being the primary occupation. People in rural areas are deeply connected to the land and maintain traditional lifestyles that are centered around farming, livestock rearing, and communal activities.

Urban areas, particularly Lomé, are growing rapidly, with people migrating from rural areas in search of better economic opportunities. This urban growth has brought about challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of affordable housing.

Economy of Togo

Key Economic Sectors

Togo’s economy is largely based on agriculture, industry, and services. The country has significant agricultural potential, with the majority of the population engaged in farming. Togo is known for its production of crops like yams, maize, cassava, and cotton, which are essential for both local consumption and export. Togo is one of the world’s largest producers of phosphate, and mining is a significant part of the country’s industrial sector. Phosphate mining, along with the production of cement and other industrial goods, forms a substantial portion of the economy.

The service sector, particularly in Lomé, has been growing, driven by trade, telecommunications, and financial services. Togo’s location along the Gulf of Guinea makes it an important transit point for trade within the West African region. The country’s port, the Port of Lomé, is one of the largest and busiest in West Africa, handling a significant portion of the country’s exports, including agricultural products, minerals, and petroleum products.

Agriculture and Exports

Agriculture plays a central role in Togo’s economy, employing a large portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. Key agricultural exports include cocoa, coffee, cotton, and palm oil, which are exported to international markets. The production of food crops such as yams and maize is vital for domestic consumption, with the country striving to achieve food security and reduce dependence on food imports.

Togo has also become an important producer of cotton, which is processed into textiles and other products. This industry, along with agriculture, forms the backbone of the country’s economy. The government has made efforts to modernize agricultural practices, improve irrigation systems, and increase productivity, particularly in the northern regions.

Challenges and Development

Togo faces several economic challenges, including a high level of poverty, limited industrial diversification, and dependence on agriculture and raw material exports. The country also faces issues related to infrastructure, such as inadequate roads and electricity in rural areas. Additionally, Togo is highly vulnerable to external economic shocks, such as fluctuations in global commodity prices, particularly for phosphate and agricultural exports.

Despite these challenges, Togo has made strides in economic development, particularly in improving its infrastructure and attracting foreign investment. The government has focused on diversifying the economy through investments in sectors such as information technology, renewable energy, and tourism. The development of the Port of Lomé and improvements in transportation networks have contributed to economic growth, especially in trade and logistics.

Government and Politics

Political Structure

Togo is a republic with a presidential system of government. The country’s political structure is based on the Constitution of Togo, which provides for a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The President of Togo serves as both the head of state and government, wielding significant executive powers. The President is elected for a five-year term and can serve up to two terms, although this has been a point of political contention in recent years.

The legislative branch consists of a unicameral National Assembly, with 91 members elected for five-year terms. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the actions of the executive branch.

Political History

Togo’s political history has been marked by periods of instability, particularly following its independence from France in 1960. The country was initially led by President Sylvanus Olympio, but after his assassination in a military coup in 1963, Togo entered a period of authoritarian rule. In 1967, Gnassingbé Eyadéma took power and ruled for 38 years, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.

Eyadéma’s regime was characterized by political repression and limited political freedoms, but Togo remained relatively stable under his rule. Following his death in 2005, his son, Faure Gnassingbé, succeeded him in a controversial election. Faure has faced criticism for the continued concentration of power in the presidency and the suppression of opposition groups.

Recent Political Reforms

In recent years, Togo has undergone some political reforms, particularly following the 2017 constitutional amendment that limited presidential terms to two. Despite these reforms, Togo’s political system remains dominated by the Gnassingbé family, and the country continues to face challenges in terms of political pluralism and democratic development. Opposition parties have criticized the government for suppressing dissent and restricting freedoms, though the country has seen improvements in governance and economic development.

Culture of Togo

Music and Dance

Togo has a rich cultural heritage, with music and dance being central elements of Tongan culture. Traditional Togolese music is diverse, with various ethnic groups contributing distinct musical styles. Drumming is a major feature of many Togolese musical traditions, and dances are often performed during religious ceremonies, festivals, and social gatherings.

In addition to traditional music, contemporary genres like Afrobeat, hip-hop, and reggae have gained popularity, particularly in urban areas. The music of Togo has a strong influence from the neighboring countries of Ghana and Benin, creating a fusion of West African sounds and rhythms.

Festivals and Traditions

Togo is home to a variety of cultural and religious festivals, which reflect the country’s diversity. The most significant festivals include traditional dances, ceremonies, and music performances, often associated with religious observances or seasonal agricultural practices. One notable festival is the Evala festival, celebrated by the Tem people in the northern part of Togo, which features initiation rites, wrestling, and traditional dances.

Religious festivals, such as Christmas, Easter, and Islamic holidays, are widely celebrated across Togo, with communities gathering for prayers, feasts, and festivities. These celebrations are often marked by communal gatherings, where food, music, and dance play an important role.

Cuisine

Togolese cuisine is influenced by the country’s agricultural products and ethnic diversity. Common ingredients include maize, cassava, yams, rice, and beans, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables. One popular dish is “fufu,” a starchy paste made from yam or cassava, often served with stews or sauces made from meats or fish.

Fish is an important part of the diet, particularly along the coast, where fishing is a major industry. Other traditional dishes include “pâte,” a maize-based dish served with vegetable or meat stews, and “akara,” fried bean cakes.

Arts and Craftsmanship

Togo is known for its traditional craftsmanship, particularly in weaving, pottery, and wood carving. The country’s artisans create intricate textiles, often used in traditional clothing, and produce wooden sculptures and masks used in ceremonies and rituals. These handmade crafts are an important part of Togo’s cultural heritage and are sold in local markets and exported to other countries.

History of Togo

Early History and Colonization

Togo’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of early human settlement and the development of complex societies. The region was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Ewe and Tem, who formed powerful kingdoms and trading states. The arrival of European explorers in the 15th century marked the beginning of a new era for Togo, with the establishment of the transatlantic slave trade.

In the late 19th century, Togo became a German colony, and the Germans built railways and infrastructure to support the colonial economy. However, following Germany’s defeat in World War I, Togo was placed under French and British mandates, with the French controlling the larger portion of the country.

Independence and Post-Colonial Era

Togo gained independence from France on April 27, 1960, with Sylvanus Olympio becoming the country’s first president. However, political instability followed, culminating in a military coup in 1963 that led to Olympio’s assassination. General Gnassingbé Eyadéma took power in 1967 and ruled Togo with an authoritarian grip for nearly four decades, overseeing significant political and economic changes, but at the cost of political freedoms.

Modern Togo

Following Eyadéma’s death in 2005, his son Faure Gnassingbé took over the presidency. While political reforms have been made, including constitutional amendments to limit presidential terms, the country continues to face challenges regarding democratic governance and political pluralism. Despite these struggles, Togo has made strides in economic development and infrastructure, striving to modernize and diversify its economy while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Togo Map

Togo Map