African Women, Pillars of Development: Togo’s Commitment in the Spotlight

The central place of women in African development

In Africa, women represent 52% of the population , making them a vital force for the continent’s transformation. At a high-level panel held in the United States as part of the World Bank and IMF annual meetings, Sandra Ablamba Johnson , Secretary General of the Presidency of the Republic and Governor of the Bank for Togo, highlighted their key role in development.

A strong plea for gender equity

At the meeting, which brought together figures such as World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and ministers from Great Britain and Nigeria, Sandra Johnson highlighted Togo’s efforts to promote gender equity. She said:

“It is simply impossible today to conceive of the development of our continent without women, because they are in the majority.”

She also recalled that this commitment is supported by the Togolese president, Faure Gnassingbé , who initiated strategic reforms to empower women.

Concrete actions of Togo for the empowerment of women

1. National Fund for Inclusive Finance (FNFI)
   • Created to eliminate economic vulnerabilities.
   • Result: more than 100 billion FCFA distributed to 2 million beneficiaries , 80% of whom are women .
2. Measures to promote women in business
   • 25% of public procurement contracts awarded to women and young people.
   • Strengthening their access to economic opportunities and jobs.
3. Support for historic women’s initiatives
   • Collaboration with the Togolese Nana Benz , emblematic female entrepreneurs.
   • Recent visit of a World Bank delegation to Lomé to explore partnerships with these inspiring figures.

International recognition of Togo’s efforts

Togo stands out as a model for promoting women’s rights . In 2024, it was ranked the top reforming country in Africa in the World Bank’s Women, Business and Law report, obtaining an exceptional score of 97.5/100 . The country achieved the maximum score on indicators such as:

• Mobility.
• The workplace.
• The wedding.
• Entrepreneurship.

Conclusion: A more inclusive and sustainable future

Togo is demonstrating that investing in women’s empowerment is a winning strategy for sustainable development. By further integrating women into economic and social policies, the country is paving the way for a more equitable future for its entire population. As Sandra Ablamba Johnson said:

“By involving more women, we are paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.”