The West African Network for Peacebuilding in Togo (WANEP-Togo) held its general assembly in Kpalimé on September 29-30. The event was themed "Rethinking Networking to Strengthen Collective Impact." The assembly brought together member organizations to evaluate the 2021-2025 strategic cycle and prepare the new 2027-2031 strategic plan. This plan aims to foster action-oriented networking, shared responsibility, and collective impact.
The general assembly saw the renewal of the Administrative Council (CA) bureau, with Pr Hétchéli Kokou Folly Lolowou elected as the new president for a three-year term. The CA bureau's renewal is part of WANEP-Togo's efforts to strengthen its leadership and strategic direction. Lolowou's election was one of the key outcomes of the assembly, which also focused on enhancing the network's impact and engagement.
The assembly enabled WANEP-Togo to reinforce its new strategic framework, improve member organization participation, and identify mechanisms to enhance communication and data sharing. A participatory self-diagnosis session helped identify challenges affecting the network's dynamics and develop corrective measures to boost member engagement. These efforts aim to ensure the network's continued effectiveness in promoting peace and security in Togo.
WANEP-Togo's national coordinator, Adiakpo Yawo Seyram, highlighted the network's achievements, including receiving several awards in recent years. These include the WANEP Organization Development Index (WODI) award in 2024 and 2025, as well as distinctions in financial management and early warning systems. The early warning system allows for the collection and analysis of information on potential security incidents to inform preventive actions.
The general assembly also saw the adoption of the moral, activity, financial, and audit reports, as well as modifications to the statutes and internal regulations. These decisions are expected to guide WANEP-Togo's future activities and ensure its continued growth and impact. The network has been active in Togo for over two decades, focusing on conflict prevention, social cohesion, participatory governance, and community security promotion.
Rév Père Afoutou Kwami Edem, outgoing vice-president of WANEP-Togo's CA, called on members to continue their efforts to build a more dynamic and influential network in peace and security. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and collective action in achieving the network's goals. The event also drew praise from local authorities, who acknowledged WANEP-Togo's commitment to peace and social cohesion.
The mayor of Kloto 3 commune, Asagbé Yawo, welcomed WANEP-Togo's engagement and encouraged participants to prioritize concrete solutions and inter-actor collaboration. He emphasized that networking should go beyond simple connections to foster mutualized competencies, experiences, and resources. WANEP-Togo's work is seen as crucial in promoting peace, security, and development in Togo.
Key points
- WANEP-Togo elects Pr Hétchéli Kokou Folly Lolowou as its new president for a three-year term.
- The network adopts a new strategic plan for 2027-2031 to strengthen its impact and engagement.
- WANEP-Togo receives several awards for its work in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and early warning systems.
