Togo

Introduction to Togo

The Togolese Republic is a country in West Africa, bordering Ghana in the west, Benin in the east and Burkina Faso in the north. In the south, it has a short Gulf of Guinea coast, on which the capital Lomé is located.

Togo is located in Western Africa. It is a small sub-Saharan nation. It borders the Bight of Benin in the south. Ghana lies to the west, Benin to the east. To the north Togo is bound by Burkina Faso.

In the north the land is characterized by a gently rolling savannah in contrast to the centre of the country which is characterized by hills. The south of Togo is characterized by a plateau which reaches to a coastal plain with extensive lagoons and marshes.

Cultural notes about Togo

Togo's culture reflects the influences of its 37 tribal ethnic groups, the largest and most influential of which are the Ewe, Mina, and Kabre. French is the official language of Togo, but many native African languages are spoken there as well. Despite the influence of Western religion, over half of the people of Togo follow native animistic practices and beliefs.

Ewe statuary is characterized by its famous statuettes which illustrate the worship of the twins, the ibéji. Sculptures and hunting trophies were used rather than the more ubiquitous African masks. The wood-carvers of Kloto are famous for their "chains of marriage": two characters are connected by rings drawn from only one piece of wood.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Togo

Violence, strikes, and political tensions can occur rapidly and without advance notice. Security forces may impose restrictions during periods of unrest, such as closing the borders and cutting telephone lines.

Pickpockets and thieves are active in Lomé, particularly along beaches and in market areas. Do not show signs of affluence. Travellers should avoid displaying jewellery, expensive watches, and cameras. Assaults, carjackings, and armed robberies can occur. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. Keep vehicle doors locked and windows shut. Identification papers and vehicle documentation should be readily available for frequent police checkpoints. Banditry, including demands for payments at checkpoints, has been reported on major intercity highways, including the Lomé-Cotonou coastal highway. Visitors should be aware that their telephone or computer lines may be tapped, even in hotels.

Ocean currents are very strong along the coast. Many drownings occur each year.