The Togolese National Assembly began its review of the 2027 budget and the revised 2026 budget on November 6, 2026, at its headquarters in Lomé. The examination was officially opened by National Assembly President Komi Selom Klassou, in the presence of Finance and Budget Minister Essowè Georges Barcola and other government members. This process is crucial for the country's financial governance, as it determines how resources are allocated and development projects are implemented.
The review of the budget is a significant exercise that reflects the country's priorities and choices. Klassou emphasized that the budget is not just a compilation of numbers, but a major political act that translates into francs the country's priorities, built around the triptych "protect, gather, transform". He invited his colleagues to approach this exercise with sincerity, performance, and equity, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all regions and social classes.
The international context is marked by contrast, with a slowdown in global growth, expected to be 3% in 2026 and 3.4% in 2027, according to the National Assembly President. In Africa, growth is expected to be 4.3% in 2026 and 4.5% in 2027. In the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), growth is expected to slow down to 5.5% in 2026 and 2027. Inflation is expected to remain under control at 1.1% in 2026 and 2.1% in 2027.
Klassou also highlighted internal challenges, including security threats, high social expectations, and climate change. He stressed that a responsible budget must integrate climate resilience as an investment, not just an accessory expense. Despite these challenges, Togo's economy remains resilient, with a real GDP growth rate expected to be 6.5% in 2027, driven by the implementation of the government's roadmap.
The 2027 budget project, which reflects the government's roadmap for 2026-2031, is balanced at 2,684.1 billion, down 2.5% from 2026. The budget provides for an increase in budgetary expenditures and a decrease in debt amortization. Finance Minister Essowè Georges Barcola stated that the 2026 revised budget was necessary due to a degraded international environment and is balanced at 2,744.2 billion.
The revised 2026 budget has a deficit of 247.6 billion, or 3.4% of GDP, compared to 206.6 billion initially planned. Barcola emphasized that the proposed adjustments aim to strike a balance between continuing structural investments, protecting the purchasing power of populations, and preserving the sustainability of public finances.
The National Assembly's examination of the budget is a critical process that will determine the country's financial priorities for the coming year. The Assembly will review the budget and provide input to ensure that it aligns with the country's needs and priorities.
Key points
- The Togolese National Assembly has started examining the 2027 budget and the revised 2026 budget.
- The budget review process aims to promote economic growth and address social challenges.
- The 2027 budget project is balanced at 2,684.1 billion, down 2.5% from 2026.
