akins station

lome News

World news Affecting Togo

Togo has been elected to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term, sparking mixed reactions from international NGOs. President Faure Gnassingbé attended the G5 Sahel Summit in Niamey, pledging 500 troops to regional counterterrorism efforts. The World Bank approved a $150 million grant to improve Lomé’s urban infrastructure and flood defenses.

The EU lifted sanctions on three Togolese officials after progress in democratic reforms, while China signed a $200 million deal to expand the Lomé Container Terminal.

Business and Economic News

GDP growth reaches 5.3% in Q2 2025, driven by port activity, agriculture, and fintech.
CFA franc (XOF) remains stable at 655 to the euro.
Inflation drops to 3.8%, though food prices remain high in local markets.
Lomé Industrial Platform attracts $75 million in new manufacturing investments.
Ecobank Group launches Togo’s first fully digital bank, targeting youth and SMEs.

Political News

Opposition coalition "Salut National" stages protests over delayed electoral reforms.
Parliament approves a new anti-corruption law, establishing a special prosecution unit.
Lomé Mayor Ahoéfavi Assih faces criticism over waste management failures in suburbs.
Togo-Ghana relations improve after joint maritime security drills.

Employment News

Unemployment falls to 6.5% (Lomé at 5.8%), but underemployment remains at 40%.
10,000 new jobs created in logistics, construction, and digital services.
Government launches "Lomé Tech Hub", training 3,000 youths in coding and AI.
Minimum wage increased to 50,000 XOF/month ($80), drawing mixed reactions from businesses.

Entertainment News

Lomé International Jazz Festival (June 20-23) features Angélique Kidjo and Toofan.
New film "Taxi Lomé" premieres at Canal Olympia, showcasing local comedy talent.
Afrobeat star Dadju news "Fête de la Musique" at Stade de Kégué (June 21).
"Voodoo Nights" cultural show returns to Hôtel 2 Février (June 28).

Election News

Electoral Commission (CENI) begins biometric voter registration for 2026 legislative polls.
Ruling UNIR party leads polls at 58%, but opposition gains traction in urban areas.
Protests in Bé district over alleged voter list irregularities.

Legal News

High Court sentences 8 officials in $12 million embezzlement case linked to road projects.
Landmark ruling grants women equal land rights under customary law.
New cybercrime law imposes 3-year jail terms for online defamation.

Market News

Grand Marché vendors strike over new tax enforcement.
Fuel prices drop to 650 XOF/liter after subsidy adjustments.
Lomé Mall expansion adds 30 new stores, boosting retail sector.

Forecast

Friday (June 24): Sunny, 31°C/25°C
Saturday (june 20): Humid, 32°C/26°C
Sunday (June 26): Thunderstorms, 29°C/24°C
Monday (June 27): Cloudy, 30°C/25°C
Tuesday (June 28): Sunny, 31°C/26°C
Wednesday (June 29): Breezy, 30°C/25°C
Thursday (June 20): Scattered showers, 29°C/24°C

Local Events

town:

AS Togo-Port vs. Maranatha FC (Ligue 1, June 26 at Stade de Kégué).
Lomé Beach Volleyball Tournament (June 27-19).

Concerts:

"Coupé-Décalé Night" at Black and White Club (June 27).
Traditional Ewe Music Festival at Palais des Congrès (June 28).

Movies:

Canal Olympia screens "The Black Book" (Nollywood thriller).
French Film Week at Institut Français (June 29-25).

Fairs & Festivals:

Lomé Artisan Fair (june 20-18) – Handmade textiles and crafts.
Fête du Vodoun (June 21) – Cultural celebrations at Sacred Forest.

Final Notes

Lomé continues to thrive as West Africa’s port and logistics hub, balancing economic growth with political tensions. While reforms progress, challenges like youth unemployment and urban congestion persist. The city’s vibrant culture and upcoming elections will shape its future.