Country Profile: Togo

Togo is a small West African nation located between Benin and Ghana, characterized by a tropical climate and a diverse geographical landscape that includes savanna, hills, and coastal plains. With an estimated population of approximately 8.9 million in 2024, Togo is known for its rich cultural diversity, comprising numerous ethnic groups and languages. The economy is predominantly agrarian, relying heavily on agriculture and phosphate mining, with ongoing efforts to improve transparency and privatization in public budgeting. Governed as a presidential republic, Togo has seen gradual political reforms and elections, although challenges remain in achieving political stability and fostering democratic governance.

Geography

Togo is situated in Western Africa, bordered by the Bight of Benin to the south and sharing land boundaries with Benin, Burkina Faso, and Ghana. It covers an area of approximately 56,785 square kilometers, featuring a range of geographical features from gently rolling savannas in the north to a low coastal plain rich in lagoons and marshes. The country's climate varies from tropical in the south to semi-arid in the north, impacting both agriculture and habitation.

56 km of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
1,880 km total land boundaries with neighboring countries.
70.2% of land used for agriculture (2022).
22.1% of forest cover as of 2022.
Highest point is Mont Agou at 986 m.

People and Society

The population of Togo is estimated at 8,917,994 in 2024, with a notable youth demographic where 38.7% are aged 0-14 years. Ethnically diverse, the population includes multiple groups, with the largest being Adja-Ewe/Mina and Kabye/Tem. The official language is French, but several indigenous languages are also spoken across the regions. Togo's society is marked by varied religious beliefs, with a significant portion practicing Christianity and indigenous folk religions.

72.6% literacy rate (2022).
42.3% Christian, 36.9% adhere to folk religions (2020).
44.5% of the population lives in urban areas (2023).
Median age is 20.7 years (2024).
30.9 births/1,000 population birth rate (2024).

Economy

Togo's economy is classified as low-income and primarily agrarian, with agriculture accounting for 18% of GDP in 2024. The country possesses a deep-water port, facilitating international shipping and trade. The phosphate mining sector plays a crucial role in the economy, supported by ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing public financial management. Despite a growing GDP, the nation faces challenges like high rural poverty and income inequality.

Real GDP (PPP) estimated at $27.115 billion (2024).
2% unemployment rate (2024).
45.5% of the population lives below the poverty line (2018).
5.3% GDP growth rate projected for 2024.
$9.926 billion GDP at official exchange rate (2024).

Government

The Togolese Republic is a presidential republic with a legal system based on customary law. The capital city is Lomé, and the political landscape has been historically influenced by military leadership. The Constitution has undergone several revisions, with recent amendments establishing a parliamentary system. Political challenges persist, including public frustration over governance and demands for reforms.

Universal suffrage at age 18.
Bicameral legislature with 113 seats in the National Assembly.
The most recent legislative election occurred in April 2024.
The president can serve a term of six years.
Independence gained on 27 April 1960.

Military and Security

Togo's military comprises the Army, Navy, and Air Force, all under the Togolese Armed Forces. The country has faced security challenges, particularly along its northern borders, due to threats from militant groups. Military expenditures account for approximately 2.2% of GDP in 2024, with ongoing efforts to professionalize the armed forces and improve internal security.

Estimated 20,000 personnel in active military service (2025).
Military service age begins at 18 years with a 24-month obligation.
Recent focus on combatting border-related threats, especially from JNIM.
The military inventory includes a mix of older equipment sourced from various countries.

Energy

Access to electricity in Togo remains limited, with only 57.2% of the population connected to the grid as of 2022. The country's energy production heavily relies on fossil fuels, with significant contributions from solar and hydroelectric sources. There are ongoing challenges in improving electricity access, particularly in rural areas.

326,000 kW total installed electricity capacity (2023).
25% electrification rate in rural areas (2022).
1.815 billion kWh total electricity consumption (2023).
96.5% electrification in urban areas (2022).

Environment

Togo faces various environmental challenges, including deforestation, water pollution, and degradation of remaining rainforest due to agricultural practices. The country's climate ranges from tropical in the south to semi-arid in the north. Togo is involved in multiple international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues.

22.1% of land classified as forest (2022).
1,109,030 tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2014).
2% of municipal solid waste recycled (2012).
14.7 billion cubic meters of total renewable water resources (2020).

Transportation

Togo has a developing transportation infrastructure, primarily featuring seven airports and a network of railways. The country's ports, including Lomé, are crucial for trade and logistics, with ongoing improvements to enhance capacity and efficiency.

397 merchant marine vessels (2023).
568 km total railway length (2014).
2 total ports, including one medium-sized port (2024).

Communications

Communications infrastructure in Togo is improving, with a growing number of mobile and internet users. Fixed telephone lines remain limited but are gradually increasing. The majority of the population has access to mobile services, reflecting a trend towards greater connectivity.

7.05 million mobile subscriptions (2023).
37% of the population are internet users (2023).
67,000 fixed-line subscriptions (2023).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	8,917,994 (2024 est.)
Area	56,785 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$27.115 billion (2024)
Energy Consumption per Capita	4.538 million Btu/person (2023)
Birth Rate	30.9 births/1,000 population (2024)
Unemployment Rate	2% (2024 est.)
Urban Population	44.5% (2023)
Life Expectancy	72.1 years (2024 est.)