The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Togo (CCI-Togo) and its partners have initiated the 'Femme Action CCI-Togo' project to promote women's participation in transportation, logistics, and port activities. The program aims to break down barriers and provide opportunities for women to pursue careers in these fields, including professional truck driving and port handling. Ten women from the first cohort will soon begin a comprehensive training program to facilitate their integration into the industry.
The project was launched on September 18, 2026, in Lomé, with the selection process involving an open call for applications that drew 43 submissions. A committee comprising representatives from CCI-Togo, the Directorate of Road and Rail Transport (DTRF), Nassif Transport, and AGL Togo chose the top candidates based on criteria such as age, educational background, and driving experience. After a rigorous evaluation, the top 10 candidates were selected for the program, which includes theoretical training, practical sessions on simulators and training vehicles, professionalization, and a three-month internship.
Mme N'Zonou Raïssa, the point person for Femme Action CCI-Togo, outlined the selection process, which involved evaluating candidates based on objective criteria, including age, educational background, and driving experience. The candidates also underwent a visual acuity test to ensure their physical fitness for the role. The selected candidates received official notification on September 7, 2026, and will begin their training program soon.
To ensure the program's success, CCI-Togo has partnered with reputable organizations, including Africa Global Logistics (AGL), Nassif Transport, and DTRF. These partners will provide technical expertise to support the training and ensure the employability of the program's graduates. AGL, a major player in transportation, logistics, and port activities, is committed to developing young people's skills, promoting employability, and supporting women's inclusion.
The president of CCI-Togo, José Kwassi Syménouh, emphasized that the project aligns with the institution's goal of increasing women's access to transportation and logistics careers. He noted that the sector is a vital component of Togo's economy, but it remains largely inaccessible to women. Syménouh encouraged the selected candidates to approach the training with commitment, discipline, and determination, highlighting the responsibility they now carry as trailblazers for other women.
The program's beneficiaries, including Mme Fumey Laethitia, the top student in the cohort, expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to making the most of the opportunity. Laethitia pledged to motivate her peers to excel in their training, creating a positive impact that will encourage other women and young girls to pursue similar careers. A ceremony marking the program's launch concluded with a partnership agreement, demonstrating the stakeholders' commitment to the initiative.
The 'Femme Action' project is a significant step towards promoting gender equality in Togo's transportation and logistics sector. By providing women with access to training and employment opportunities, the initiative aims to break down barriers and create a more inclusive industry. The program's success will depend on the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders, including CCI-Togo, its partners, and the beneficiaries themselves.
Key points
- The CCI-Togo has launched the 'Femme Action' project to promote women's participation in transportation, logistics, and port activities.
- Ten women have been selected for the program's first cohort and will undergo comprehensive training to prepare them for careers in the industry.
- The initiative is supported by partnerships with AGL, Nassif Transport, and DTRF, ensuring a collaborative approach to promoting women's empowerment in the sector.
