The population
Togo, with a population of 8.1 million, is distinguished by its rich ethnic and linguistic diversity. French serves as the official language, yet local languages such as Ewé and Kabiyè are widely spoken. The population is predominantly young, with over 60% under the age of 25.
Primarily an agricultural nation, Togo is experiencing growing urbanization, particularly in Lomé, the capital. Its economy is driven by agriculture, trade, and services, alongside a burgeoning technological and industrial sector. Despite challenges in employment and education, the country continues to progress, propelled by a dynamic and enterprising youth.
Area and Capital City
Togo, the Green Heart of West Africa
Discover the richness of Togo through three major national days highlighting the country’s culture, economy, and innovation
April 27, 1960
Motto
Official languages
Currency
TheTourism
The country offers a range of accommodations to suit all preferences — from modern hotels in Lomé, like Hôtel 2 Février, Onomo, and the iconic Hotel Sarakawa, known for its beachfront location and lush gardens, to cozy eco-lodges in rural areas. These establishments provide both comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. Tourism in Togo combines nature, crafts, gastronomy, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and discovery.
Togo, where history and culture come alive
TheTogo Story
The territory of present-day Togo has a rich history shaped by ancient settlements, migrations, and contact with neighboring civilizations. Oral traditions mention early peoples such as the Alou and Azanou of Tado, the Akposso-Akébou, the Ahlon of the Dayes Plateau, and the Kabyè. These groups laid the cultural foundation of the country long before colonial influence.
Later migrations brought other key communities like the Adja-Ewé, Guin-Mina, Tem, Tchokossi, and Moba-Gourma. The name “Togo” comes from “Togodo,” which means “the city behind the mountain” in Ewé. Togoville, located east of today’s capital Lomé, was once a German colonial center and served as Togo’s first capital. These regions still preserve important cultural and spiritual traditions.
Togo’s path to independence was marked by determination and unity. The Comité d’Unité Togolaise (CUT) won the 1958 elections, paving the way for independence, officially achieved on April 27, 1960. Before that, internal autonomy had been granted in 1956. Today, the Independence Monument in Lomé stands as a national symbol of freedom, showing a man breaking his chains — representing the strength and resilience of the Togolese people.
TheTogo Story
The territory of present-day Togo has a rich history shaped by ancient settlements, migrations, and contact with neighboring civilizations. Oral traditions mention early peoples such as the Alou and Azanou of Tado, the Akposso-Akébou, the Ahlon of the Dayes Plateau, and the Kabyè. These groups laid the cultural foundation of the country long before colonial influence.
Later migrations brought other key communities like the Adja-Ewé, Guin-Mina, Tem, Tchokossi, and Moba-Gourma. The name “Togo” comes from “Togodo,” which means “the city behind the mountain” in Ewé. Togoville, located east of today’s capital Lomé, was once a German colonial center and served as Togo’s first capital. These regions still preserve important cultural and spiritual traditions.
Togo’s path to independence was marked by determination and unity. The Comité d’Unité Togolaise (CUT) won the 1958 elections, paving the way for independence, officially achieved on April 27, 1960. Before that, internal autonomy had been granted in 1956. Today, the Independence Monument in Lomé stands as a national symbol of freedom, showing a man breaking his chains — representing the strength and resilience of the Togolese people.
The culture
Togo is a treasure trove of authentic traditions and cultures, carefully preserved by the diverse mosaic of ethnic groups that inhabit the country.
Stretching over 650 kilometers from south to north, Togo offers a rich journey through its many communities, each with their own unique customs and way of life.
From the Ewé and Guins in the south, to the Ana people in the Plateaux region, and the Tem in the central areas, the cultural experience continues with the Bassar, Kabyè, and Tamberma of the Kara region, all the way to the Moba-Gourma in the far north.
Art and Theatre
With a flourishing literary culture, Togolese literature celebrates its great figures, including Félix Couchoro, the founding father and pioneer of this literary tradition, which is now 100 years old.
When it comes to art in Togo, Paul Ahyi is unanimously recognized — not only as the creator of the Togolese flag, but also for much more.
His works are scattered throughout the Togolese landscape and around the world.
Togolese art stands out from its contemporaries while embracing elements of the universal artistic language.
Togo, Where Many Religions Bloom in Harmony
Christianity in Togo
- Introduced by European missionaries during German and French colonization.
- The majority religion, especially in southern and urban areas.
- Main denominations: Catholic, Evangelical Presbyterian, Methodist, and charismatic churches.
- Churches play key roles in education, health, and social services.
- Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas are national celebrations.
- Sunday is widely observed as a day of rest and worship.
Islam in Togo
- Practiced by around 20% of the population, mainly in central and northern regions.
- Brought through trans-Saharan trade routes and by Hausa and Fulani communities.
- Most Togolese Muslims are Sunni.
- Important cities with strong Muslim presence: Sokodé, Bafilo, and Dapaong.
- Friday is the main prayer day; mosques are central to religious life.
- Coexists peacefully with Christianity and traditional beliefs.
Vodoun in Togo
- Ancestral religion practiced mainly in the south, especially by the Ewe, Mina, and Watchi.
- Focuses on the worship of natural forces, spirits, and ancestors.
- Temples, sacred forests, and shrines are key ritual spaces.
- Celebrations include music, dance, masks, and trances.
- Vodoun is recognized as an official religion in Togo.
- It coexists with Christianity and Islam, often through syncretism.
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