The Togolese government has been criticized for its inconsistent governance and project implementation. A recent example is the upgrade of Nationale N°1, a major road in the country. In July, the Mayor of Zio 1, Dr. Yawo Atatsi, issued an ultimatum to occupants along the road, requiring them to vacate the 70-meter-wide area by July 27. The decree, based on a 2022 law, aims to facilitate the road's upgrade into a double carriageway with two lanes in each direction.
The planned upgrade involves significant changes to the road's infrastructure. On the Adéticopé-Davié-Lilicopé-Gamé section, the road will be 14 meters wide with lamp posts on both sides. In commune centers, the width will increase to 18 meters with public lighting, while between Agoè-Nyivé-Grand Pont and Togblécopé, it will reach 32 meters. The project, first proposed in 2005 under President Faure Gnassingbé's 20 Plus program, has been delayed, leaving many wondering when work will begin.
The upgrade will affect numerous homes, shops, and public and private infrastructure. To mitigate the impact, the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure will conduct a census of affected properties, evaluate them, and provide compensation to owners with valid documents. The Municipality of Tsévié warned that those who fail to vacate the area by the deadline will face forced eviction, carried out in accordance with the law and administrative procedures.
Two months after the ultimatum, no work has started on the project. The lack of progress has raised concerns among residents, who are uncertain about the project's timeline and potential impact on their livelihoods. The delay has sparked questions about the government's ability to implement large-scale projects and provide adequate support to affected communities.
The Nationale N°1 upgrade is a long-awaited project that aims to improve the country's infrastructure and transportation network. However, the repeated delays and lack of clear communication from the government have eroded trust among residents and raised concerns about the project's viability. As the situation stands, it remains unclear when work will begin and how the project will affect the local community.
The situation has sparked criticism about the government's governance style and its ability to implement projects. With many projects in the country facing delays or abandonment, residents are increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress and communication from authorities. As the Nationale N°1 upgrade remains stalled, residents are left wondering when the project will move forward and what the consequences will be for those affected.
The Togo government has not provided an update on the project's status or a new timeline for its completion. As the delay continues, residents are calling for greater transparency and communication from authorities about the project's plans and potential impact on their communities.
Key points
- The Togo government's inconsistent governance and project implementation have raised concerns about the Nationale N°1 upgrade's viability.
- The project's delay has left residents uncertain about the timeline and potential impact on their livelihoods and properties.
- The upgrade aims to transform Nationale N°1 into a double carriageway with improved infrastructure and public lighting.
