On October 30, 2026, Turkish Ambassador to Togo Muteber Kılıç reviewed the growing relations between Ankara and Lomé on the occasion of Turkey's 103rd Republic Day. The two nations have seen significant growth in commercial exchanges, reaching $270 million in 2025, up from $128 million in 2021. This surge is attributed to high-level visits, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's trip to Lomé in October 2021 and Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé's visit to Ankara in June 2023.
Education is a key pillar of the Turkey-Togo relationship. The Turkish Maarif schools in Togo have over 650 students enrolled from kindergarten to high school across two campuses. Additionally, Ankara offers annual scholarships to Togolese students to pursue higher education in Turkey. A new Turkish Studies and Research Center was opened at the University of Lomé in November 2024, offering Turkish language courses and recently launching an agricultural technology training program.
The cooperation between Turkey and Togo extends beyond education to various sectors, including energy, tourism, health, and environment. Turkey participated in the "Territoires d'Afrique zéro déchet" forum held in Kpalimé in late October, as a prelude to COP31, which Turkey will host from November 9 to 20 in Antalya. This engagement reflects Turkey's growing influence on the African continent through its diplomatic efforts, educational initiatives, and commercial partnerships.
Turkey's expanding presence in Africa is part of its broader strategy to enhance its diplomatic and economic ties with the continent. The Turkish government has significantly extended its network of embassies and air connections across Africa. This approach aligns with Togo's policy of diversifying its partnerships, seeking to engage with new actors while maintaining traditional alliances.
The history of modern Turkey dates back to October 29, 1923, when the Grand National Assembly of Turkey proclaimed the Republic of Turkey, marking the end of over six centuries of Ottoman Empire rule. Mustafa Kemal, later known as Atatürk, was elected as the first president of the newly formed republic. This anniversary serves as a reminder of Turkey's rich history and its ongoing efforts to strengthen its global partnerships.
The growing relationship between Turkey and Togo reflects a broader trend of emerging partnerships in Africa. Like Russia, Turkey has established itself as a significant new partner for Togo and other African nations. This shift is driven by both sides' desire to diversify their economic and diplomatic engagements. For Togo, engaging with new partners like Turkey offers opportunities for economic growth and development.
As Turkey continues to enhance its presence in Africa, its relations with Togo are likely to remain a key aspect of its regional strategy. With a focus on education, commerce, and cooperation in various sectors, the partnership between Ankara and Lomé is poised for further growth. This relationship not only benefits both nations but also contributes to the broader dynamics of international cooperation and development in Africa.
Key points
- Commercial exchanges between Turkey and Togo reached $270 million in 2025, up from $128 million in 2021.
- The Turkish Maarif schools in Togo have over 650 students enrolled from kindergarten to high school.
- Turkey will host COP31 from November 9 to 20 in Antalya.
