Togo’s New Tourism Strategy Focuses on Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Growth, Get the Details Here

Published on December 1, 2025

As an initial step towards the promotion and amplification of the country’s socio-cultural and tourism resources, the Republic of Togo is encouraging all localities in the country to survey and document their historical heritage sites. This is part of a national plan aimed at boosting the tourism industry, which is a priority for the economic advancement of the country. The project was launched last week in Lomé at a training session for local administrators aimed at assisting municipal authorities in the incorporation of culture and tourism resources in their plans for local economic development.

Strengthening Local Tourism Through Cultural Preservation

The cataloging effort is a crucial step in preserving Togo’s rich cultural heritage while positioning the country as a compelling destination for both international and domestic tourists. Minister of Culture Isaac Tchiakpé has called on all municipalities to compile an inventory of their heritage sites, a task that will help safeguard Togo’s musical traditions, historical landmarks, and cultural practices. By emphasizing local heritage, the government hopes to boost tourism while preserving Togo’s identity and history.

This initiative is not just about cataloging historical and cultural landmarks but also about creating a broader tourism infrastructure that can support future growth. As part of the national place-branding strategy, Togo aims to promote its unique culture and traditions to the world. Local municipalities are being encouraged to incorporate tourism and culture more systematically into their development plans to ensure the sustainability of these sites for generations to come.

A National Strategy to Elevate Togo’s Tourism Sector

The cataloging of heritage sites is just one aspect of a broader, national tourism strategy. Togo has set its sights on attracting more international visitors by strengthening its cultural tourism and offering unique experiences that highlight the country’s diverse traditions. In addition to preserving heritage sites, the government is focused on promoting Togo’s music, art, and traditional performances, which are major attractions for tourists looking for authentic cultural experiences.

One of the government’s key goals is to expand business tourism in Togo. This includes efforts to establish a digital hotel booking platform for major events, which would streamline the process for both local and international visitors. The platform will help attract tourists who are coming for conferences, trade shows, and other business-related events, supporting the growth of the country’s business tourism sector.

Revitalizing Key Cultural Sites to Boost Tourism

Togo has also embarked on a program to restore several of its key cultural sites, which are central to the country’s tourism offerings. These include the historic Kamina site near Atakpamé, which holds great historical significance, and the Koutammakou cultural landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional earthen homes. These sites, once restored, will serve as major draws for tourists interested in Togo’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

The restoration of these sites is seen as an essential component of Togo’s strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. By enhancing the accessibility and attractiveness of these historical landmarks, the government hopes to draw more visitors, increase tourism revenue, and improve the overall tourism infrastructure in the country.

The Role of Municipalities in Cultural and Tourism Development

The new initiative empowers local governments to take a more active role in developing their tourism offerings. Municipalities are encouraged to leverage their unique cultural and historical assets to attract tourists, create local jobs, and stimulate economic growth. The idea is to build a bottom-up approach to tourism development, where local communities can actively participate in preserving and promoting their heritage.

This effort also aligns with the global trend of promoting sustainable and community-based tourism. By involving local communities in the tourism process, Togo can ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably, particularly in rural areas where many of the country’s heritage sites are located. This approach also fosters a deeper connection between visitors and local cultures, enriching the tourist experience while promoting cultural preservation.

Impact on Togo’s Economy and the Tourism Sector

Tourism currently contributes approximately 8% to Togo’s national GDP, and the government is keen on expanding this sector to generate more revenue and create jobs. By improving infrastructure, restoring cultural sites, and promoting sustainable tourism, Togo hopes to boost the economic impact of the tourism sector, attracting both leisure and business travelers.

The cataloging of heritage sites, along with the restoration and promotion of key cultural landmarks, is expected to generate increased interest from international tourists, particularly those interested in Africa’s rich cultural heritage. As more tourists visit Togo, the demand for services such as hotels, transport, and local products will also increase, creating new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs in the region.

Promoting Togo as a Sustainable Travel Destination

Sustainability is at the heart of Togo’s tourism strategy. The government is focused on promoting responsible tourism practices that respect the country’s cultural and natural assets. The cataloging of heritage sites is part of this broader effort to ensure that tourism benefits the local economy while preserving the environment and cultural heritage for future generations.

By encouraging sustainable tourism practices and developing eco-friendly travel options, Togo aims to appeal to the growing number of travelers who are prioritizing sustainability in their travel choices. The country’s commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty will make it an attractive destination for eco-conscious tourists from around the world.

Looking Toward the Future: A Growing Tourism Hub

As Togo advances the development of its tourism sector, the various components regarding the culture, history, and natural beauty of Togo will radiate Togo as an exceptional destination among Togo’s potential competitors within the scope of tourism. With this initiative Togo’s first step will be completed to becoming an exceptional center of culture and tourism within the continent.