Togo's CIZO Program Brings Affordable Solar Power to Rural Areas

The CIZO program, launched by the Togolese government in 2017, aims to achieve universal access to electricity by 2030. In the Gbatopé canton, the program has equipped over 300,000 households with solar kits, benefiting around 1.7 million people. The program targets rural and peri-urban households with low incomes, particularly those located over 10 kilometers from the electrical grid.

The solar kits, known as Home 200X Plus, include a panel, battery, and three light bulbs. Ayaki Hèzouwè, a 30-year-old farmer from Adangbé village, received a kit and says it has changed his daily life. He can now see in the evening, recharge his phone at home, and his children can study without difficulty. The kit costs 1,800 FCFA per month, or 60 FCFA per day, which is equivalent to what many households previously spent on flashlight batteries, candles, or phone recharges.

The CIZO program operates on a "Cheque CIZO" principle, where the state covers 70% of the cost of a domestic solar system, and the household pays the remaining amount in 36 monthly installments. This approach has made solar power affordable for low-income households. According to the program's monitoring, Togo's access to electricity has increased from 48% in 2017 to 61% in 2024, making it one of the countries with the fastest progress in the world.

The program has not only improved access to electricity but also transformed the daily habits of rural households. Akuelé Adonko, a small food shop owner in Kodjo village, can now sell her goods at night, thanks to the solar kit. Togbui Nkonou Koffi, a traditional healer and sculptor, has also benefited from the program and appreciates the advantage of owning the kit indefinitely once he finishes paying for it.

The CIZO program has received recognition from the World Bank's ESMAP program as an example of best practice. However, despite the progress made, 3.7 million people in Togo still lack access to electricity. The program aims to address this challenge and continue to expand access to solar power for rural households.

The impact of the CIZO program is evident in the testimonies of households that have benefited from it. Amédétogno Komi Dodji, a resident of Gbatopé, has been using his solar kit for three years and has fully paid for it in 11 months. He praises the government for this initiative, which has enabled his children to study without difficulty.

As the program continues to expand, it is expected to make a significant contribution to Togo's goal of achieving universal access to electricity by 2030. With 60 francs per day, households in rural areas can now enjoy the benefits of solar power, transforming their daily lives and improving their economic prospects.

Key points

• The CIZO program has improved access to electricity for over 1.7 million people in Togo.
• The program provides solar kits to households for 60 francs per day, making solar power affordable for low-income households.
• Togo's access to electricity has increased from 48% in 2017 to 61% in 2024, making it one of the countries with the fastest progress in the world.