The Togolese government participated in the Global Summit on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technology in Seoul, South Korea, from October 19-22, 2026. Minister of Digital Economy and Digital Transformation, Cina Lawson, presented four Togolese experiences related to digital inclusion and skills development. One of the programs highlighted was Novissi, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide financial assistance to vulnerable populations. The program utilized technology to facilitate targeting and disbursement of social aid.
The Novissi program was designed to support individuals affected by COVID-19 restrictions in Togo. It operated from April 7 to June 9, 2020, providing a minimum monthly financial support of 12,250 FCFA for women and 10,500 FCFA for men. A total of 11,314,281,875 FCFA was allocated to 566,567 beneficiaries in Grand Lomé and Tchaoudjo. Minister Cina Lawson previously hailed the program as a "success story" and a "methodological shift" from the past.
However, an audit report by the Court of Accounts on the management of the COVID-19 fund in 2020 revealed several irregularities in the Novissi program. The report noted non-compliance with decree N°2020-053/PR, irregularities in fund transfers, and payments without a legal basis. The minister received letters from the Court, but was later summoned to the National Assembly to justify the program's management, failing to convince many.
Despite these findings, the Novissi program was presented at the global AI summit as a model for using technology to facilitate social aid targeting and disbursement. Minister Cina Lawson shared her experience, highlighting the program's potential in developing economies. The summit session focused on the potential of AI in developing economies, and Lawson's presentation was part of Togo's efforts to showcase its digital initiatives.
The Togolese government's participation in the summit aimed to promote its digital economy and attract international attention. The country's digital transformation efforts were showcased, including its national AI training program, which combines computer programming, English language learning, and digital skills acquisition. Another initiative, "Voix du Togo," aims to develop linguistic resources for AI systems to better understand local languages.
The acceleration project, supported by the World Bank, seeks to extend connectivity to schools, health establishments, and local administrations, facilitating access to digital services. This project aligns with Togo's efforts to improve its digital infrastructure and promote digital inclusion. The country's digital development initiatives have been recognized internationally, despite controversy surrounding some programs.
Critics argue that presenting the Novissi program as a success story is misleading, given the audit findings and scandal surrounding its management. The program's irregularities have raised concerns about Togo's governance and the accountability of its leaders. The international community's perception of Togo's digital initiatives may be influenced by these controversies, potentially impacting the country's reputation and future partnerships.
Key points
- - Togo's Novissi program was presented at a global AI summit as a model for social aid targeting and disbursement despite controversy and audit findings of irregularities. - The program was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide financial assistance to vulnerable populations, but faced criticism for its management and accountability. - Togo's digital economy efforts were showcased at the summit, including its national AI training program and linguistic resources initiative.
