Togo accelerates its transition to green and inclusive development

Togo is resolutely pursuing its transition to sustainable development, focusing on climate resilience and social inclusion.

Togo is determined to continue its transition to sustainable development, focusing on climate resilience and social inclusion.

To this end, two major projects were officially launched at the end of February.

Financed to the tune of 5.7 million US dollars (over 3 billion CFA francs) by the South Korean government, this program is part of a strategic collaboration between the Togolese government and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI).

These initiatives aim to strengthen the resilience of populations to climate change and improve socio-economic conditions in rural areas. They are part of a broader policy that positions Togo as a major player in the ecological transition in West Africa.

The first project, with a budget of $3.5 million, aims to improve rural infrastructures and promote an environmentally-friendly economy. It involves :

• The installation of post-harvest solutions and solar modules to transform agricultural products, minimize losses and maximize the added value of local produce.
• The installation of ecological infrastructures and drinking water facilities to improve the quality of life for local populations.
• Training young people and women in the management of green businesses, offering them new economic opportunities while strengthening their role in preserving natural resources.

The second project, entitled "Strengthening people's resilience to climate change through the sustainable management of forest resources", has received funding of US$2.2 million (nearly CFA1.5 billion). It is based on several strategic pillars:

• Sustainable management of shea parks, by improving local governance and optimizing the use of this valuable resource for the rural economy.
• Reforestation with high-quality shea seedlings, guaranteeing greater profitability for producers and helping to combat deforestation.
• Involvement of women's and youth cooperatives in the value chain, to promote their economic empowerment and strengthen their ability to adapt to climate challenges.

In addition to these projects, Togo is strengthening its environmental policy through structuring initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and accelerating its energy transition.

• Renewable energies: the country aims to achieve a 50% share of green energy in its energy mix by 2030. This ambition is accompanied by the gradual deployment of sustainable energy solutions, particularly in rural areas.
• Green mobility: with electric vehicles already accounting for 6% of the national vehicle fleet, Togo is gradually making sustainable mobility a priority.

Forest preservation is another key pillar of the country's environmental strategy. Faced with the threat of deforestation, the government has launched an ambitious national reforestation program, aiming to increase national forest cover to 30% by 2050.

The results are already visible:

• 2022: 5 million trees planted
• 2023: 2 million additional trees
• 2024: 9 million trees planted

These efforts demonstrate Togo's commitment to building climate resilience while ensuring inclusive socio-economic development.

With these initiatives, Togo is establishing itself as a model for ecological transition in West Africa. By improving rural infrastructure, managing natural resources sustainably and accelerating energy reforms, the country is laying the foundations for resilient, inclusive and environmentally-friendly development.

These projects, supported by international partners such as South Korea and the GGGI, testify to a strong political will to make Togo a leader in green growth in Africa.

Source: www.republicoftogo.com