The 7th edition of "Mois du consommer local" was launched on October 6 in Lomé, Togo, with the goal of promoting local products and services to boost the country's economic sovereignty. The event, which runs from October 1 to 31, is themed "Consommation locale, facteur d'intégration régionale et de souveraineté économique : défis et opportunités" (Local Consumption, a Factor of Regional Integration and Economic Sovereignty: Challenges and Opportunities). This initiative is part of a regional effort led by the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) to encourage the consumption of locally produced goods and services.
The launch ceremony featured a film screening on the effects of local consumption, testimonials from producers and transformers in the shea butter and soybean sectors, and a symbolic handover of display stands to showcase Togolese products in supermarkets. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit stands and sample local dishes. The event aims to support various stakeholders in the value chain, including producers, transformers, distributors, and consumers. Several activities are planned throughout the month, including exhibitions, sales, and tasting sessions in Lomé and regional capitals.
The Togolese government has reported positive outcomes from the previous six editions of "Mois du consommer local", with a nearly 40% increase in turnover in key sectors such as agri-food, cosmetics, and clothing. Economy and Strategic Monitoring Minister Badanam Patoki emphasized that promoting local consumption is a priority in the government's 2026-2031 roadmap. The government has implemented measures to encourage the purchase of local goods and services in public procurement. Digitalization is also being promoted, with the development of local digital tools, such as the "Nam'Asia" application for tracking prices of staple products.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Togo (CCI-Togo) President Dr. José Kwassi Syménouh stressed that local consumption must be based on quality, innovation, availability, and competitiveness of products. He encouraged producers to improve certification and packaging quality, distributors to allocate more space to Togolese products, and financial institutions to adapt their mechanisms to support local consumption. Syménouh emphasized that consuming local products is not only a patriotic act but also a vital strategy to stimulate industry, create decent jobs, and ensure resilience in the face of global challenges.
The "Mois du consommer local" initiative aims to increase the visibility and competitiveness of Togolese products, while promoting regional integration and economic sovereignty. UEMOA's efforts to encourage local consumption are expected to have a positive impact on the economies of member states. Togo's government has made significant investments in the agricultural and industrial sectors, with a focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and promoting entrepreneurship.
As part of the month-long celebration, workshops and training sessions will be organized on access to markets, quality, packaging, and pricing. A conference-debate on the central theme and company visits are also planned. These activities aim to enhance the capacities of local producers, transformers, and distributors, while promoting dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.
The 7th edition of "Mois du consommer local" is expected to contribute to Togo's economic growth and development, while promoting regional integration and cooperation. The initiative is a key component of the country's strategy to achieve economic sovereignty and improve the standard of living of its citizens. By supporting local consumption, Togo aims to reduce its dependence on imported goods and services, while promoting entrepreneurship and job creation.
Key points
- The Togolese government aims to increase the visibility and competitiveness of local products to boost economic sovereignty.
- The "Mois du consommer local" initiative has reported positive outcomes, including a 40% increase in turnover in key sectors.
- The government has implemented measures to encourage the purchase of local goods and services in public procurement.
