Togo continues its digital transition by introducing eight new digital services related to commerce and craftsmanship. This initiative, driven by the Ministry of Commerce and supported by the Togo Digital Agency, simplifies administrative procedures for citizens, businesses, and artisans, making the administration more efficient and accessible.

Major step forward for digital services in Togo

Togo is increasingly positioning itself as a leader in digital transformation in West Africa. In August 2024, eight new digital services were launched to make administrative procedures easier for citizens and businesses. This progress is particularly noteworthy in a country where public administration has long been associated with complex and time-consuming processes. The Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the Togo Digital Agency, is responding to the pressing needs for modernization and accessibility of services.

Eight digital services : Revolution for users

The new offerings include a wide range of essential services, primarily targeting commerce and craftsmanship. Here are the eight digital services now available online:

• Application for a certificate of prior authorization for the importation of sensitive products : Importers can submit applications online to obtain the necessary authorizations for importing sensitive products (such as certain chemicals or specific foodstuffs). This digitization ensures better market regulation and strengthened safety standards.
• Application for authorization to market food products in Togo: This service allows food companies to submit applications to market their products. The entire process is now digital, making it easier to comply with national standards with just a few clicks.
• Application for a professional card for artisans and craft businesses : Artisans and craft businesses can obtain their professional cards via the online platform, allowing them to be officially recognized. This opens doors to access local and international markets while simplifying administrative procedures.
• Application for an importer/exporter card : This service is essential for professionals in international trade. Thanks to digitization, they can obtain their importer or exporter card without undergoing heavy and time-consuming administrative procedures, allowing them to comply with trade regulations more quickly.
• Application for a certificate of origin outside ECOWAS : Exporters of products destined for markets outside ECOWAS must obtain this certificate to prove the origin of their goods. Digitization speeds up this crucial process to facilitate trade outside the region.
• Registration of an apprentice : Master artisans can now register their apprentices online, making the process faster and more efficient. This service also allows for better management of training within craft businesses.
• Registration for the certificate of completion of apprenticeship (CFA) exam : Candidates can register for the CFA exam directly online. Digitization reduces administrative constraints and makes registration more accessible, especially for those far from administrative centers.
• Application for the CFA diploma : Apprentices can request their certificate online once they graduate. This speeds up the process of obtaining the official document, essential for entering the job market or pursuing further studies.

Analysis : What impact on users’ daily lives ?

The digitization of these eight services marks an important turning point for Togo’s administration. It significantly reduces the processing time of applications. Previously, an import authorization request could take several weeks to process, with additional costs due to repeated visits to administrative offices. Now, these requests are processed in a few days, or even hours in some cases. This not only saves time for users but also reduces costs associated with bureaucracy. About 30% of administrative costs related to travel and intermediaries are saved, resulting in direct savings for businesses.

Moreover, the transparency of administrative processes is improved. Thanks to the online platform, users can track the progress of their applications in real-time, reducing the risks of corruption and human errors. This transparency also helps to strengthen citizens’ trust in public institutions.

It is also important to note that these digital services play a key role in social inclusion. Togo aims to digitize 75 % of administrative procedures by 2025, representing a real revolution for citizens in rural areas, often far from administrative centers. This increased accessibility allows them to benefit from the same opportunities as those living in major cities.

Challenges and prospects for digital transformation in Togo

Although these advancements are significant, challenges remain. One of the main obstacles to the widespread adoption of these digital services is the limited access to the internet in some parts of the country. Currently, only 35 % of the Togolese population has stable internet access, limiting the impact of digitization for a large part of the population. Continuous investments are therefore essential to improve digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas.

Additionally, educating citizens on how to use these platforms is crucial to ensuring their success. The Ministry of Commerce and the Togo Digital Agency must invest in awareness and training campaigns to ensure that these digital services are accessible to everyone, regardless of education level or familiarity with technology.