Togo

The territory extends from the Gulf of Guinea northward through five distinct regions, with terrain transitioning from coastal lowlands through central plateaus to northern savanna zones, forming a narrow geographic profile between Ghana and Benin along approximately 340 miles (550 kilometers).

French Togoland obtained independence in 1960 with Lomé designated as capital, experienced three decades of authoritarian rule under Gnassingbé Eyadéma beginning in 1967, and transitioned to a multiparty system during the 1990s that continues to shape political structures today.

Over 30 ethnic communities preserve distinct cultural practices in a multilingual nation where French functions as the administrative language alongside Ewe and Kabiyé as national languages, while traditional Vodun beliefs continue to hold social significance throughout the territory.

The national currency is the West African CFA franc, while the economy depends on phosphate mining, agricultural exports, and maritime commerce through Lomé port facilities. Visas are available on arrival at Lomé international airport and the most favorable travel period runs from November through March.

Fazao-Malfakassa National Park protects elephants, various antelope species, and buffalo across roughly 770 square miles (2,000 square kilometers) of mountainous terrain, while Koutammakou in the north features fortress-like mud houses with conical thatched roofs recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inception: April 27, 1960

Capital city: Lomé

Part of: West Africa

Shares border with: Burkina Faso, Ghana, Benin, Hohoe

Website: https://republicoftogo.com

GPS coordinates: 8.78003,1.01998

Latest update: November 30, 2025 19:00