The Togolese Council of Ministers convened on Tuesday and adopted a bill aimed at reforming the country's electricity sector. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen governance, attract investments, and consolidate the financial equilibrium of the sector. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the country's energy landscape. The bill was adopted on October 7, 2026.
The new bill recognizes the importance of electricity storage and introduces the concept of "eligible client," allowing third-party access to the grid. It also enhances the role of independent producers and encourages self-production, self-consumption, and the injection of excess renewable energy. Furthermore, the bill lays the groundwork for the deployment of smart meters, with a focus on cybersecurity requirements.
The legislation also provides for the diversification of energy supply in special economic zones, enabling them to opt for self-production and direct contracts with national or regional producers. Additionally, the bill outlines plans for the gradual connection of isolated networks to the national grid. These measures are expected to improve the overall efficiency and reliability of the electricity sector.
In a related development, the Council of Ministers adopted a decree updating the rules for the issuance of visas and residence permits. The new regulations create new categories, regulate economic, professional, academic, cultural, and humanitarian mobility, and strengthen personal data protection. The decree also aims to reduce processing times for certain types of visas.
The Council also discussed the upcoming "Mois du consommer local" (Local Consumption Month), which will take place from October 1 to 31. The event aims to promote locally manufactured products and reduce imports. This initiative is part of the government's efforts to boost the local economy and encourage the consumption of domestic goods.
Furthermore, the government is preparing to implement a United Nations resolution, "Correct the Map," which was adopted on September 4 at the initiative of the African group, led by Togo. The resolution aims to promote the "Equal Earth" projection in school textbooks and train teachers. A meeting of African education ministers is planned in Lomé, in collaboration with the African Union and UNESCO, to adopt a "Lomé Declaration" and an African roadmap for "Correct the Map."
The Togolese government's efforts to reform the electricity sector and promote local consumption are part of a broader strategy to drive economic growth and development. The adoption of the electricity sector bill and the implementation of the UN resolution are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and education system.
Key points
- The Togolese Council of Ministers adopts a bill to reform the electricity sector, aiming to strengthen governance, attract investments, and improve financial balance.
- The government also adopts a decree updating visa and residence permit regulations, and prepares to implement a UN resolution to promote the "Equal Earth" projection in school textbooks.
- The "Mois du consommer local" event aims to promote locally manufactured products and reduce imports.
