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Check FAQAbout Kossi
Kossi Woussou is a journalist based in Lomé, Togo, with a distinguished career in reporting on West African politics. His expertise particularly shines in covering the economical, social and political developments in Togo and West Africa. As a correspondent for Voice of America (VOA Africa) and Bloomberg, Woussou has provided in-depth analysis and reporting on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), often highlighting Togo's role in facilitating these engagements. In addition to his work with international news outlets, Woussou serves as the Chief Editor for the local newspapers called ‘’Le Medium’’ and ‘’L’Intelligent’’, where he oversees the production of content that resonates with a local audience while maintaining a global perspective. His journalistic contributions also extend to the bi-weekly publication Journal ‘’Union pour la Patrie’’, further establishing him as a prominent voice in the media landscape of Togo.
French
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
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Portfolio
Counting of Vote That May Cement Togo Family Dynasty Reign Starts
Ballot counting for Togo's parliamentary elections began, with the ruling Union for the Republic party expected to maintain its majority and potentially extend President Faure Gnassingbé's family's 57-year rule. A recent constitutional amendment shifted significant power to the president of a council of ministers, a position without term limits, which critics argue could perpetuate Gnassingbé's hold on power. The main opposition, the Union of Forces for Change, commended the election's conduct and called for peaceful resolution of disputes. Results are anticipated within a week.
Counting of Vote That May Cement Togo Family Dynasty Reign Starts
Ballot counting in Togo's parliamentary vote, which could solidify President Faure Gnassingbé's family dynasty, has begun. The ruling Union for the Republic party is expected to secure a majority of the 113 seats in the National Assembly. The vote follows a controversial constitutional amendment that critics argue will extend Gnassingbé's rule. The main opposition party, Union of Forces for Change, commended the election's conduct and urged for calm until results are announced. Gnassingbé has been in power since 2005, succeeding his father who ruled since a 1967 coup.
Family Dynasty Hatches Plan to Indefinitely Rule Togo After Vote
Togo's President Faure Gnassingbé is poised to secure lifelong power if his party retains a parliamentary majority, following a controversial constitutional amendment that shifts executive power to the president of a council of ministers. This move is seen as a strategy to bypass presidential term limits and extend the Gnassingbé family's 57-year rule. The amendment has drawn criticism from the US State Department and experts who view it as a deliberate attempt to sidestep democratic processes. Despite economic growth, most Togolese live in poverty, and the opposition faces significant challenges in contesting the new system.
Counting of Vote That May Cement Togo Family Dynasty Reign Starts
Ballot counting in Togo's parliamentary vote has begun, with the ruling Union for the Republic party expected to secure a majority. This election follows a controversial constitutional change that critics argue will extend President Faure Gnassingbé's family's 57-year rule. The amendment shifts real power to the president of a council of ministers, a role likely to be filled by the leader of the largest party in the new parliament. The main opposition party, Union of Forces for Change, praised the conduct of the vote and called for calm until results are announced.
The success of cashew nut cultivation in Togo
Cashew nut cultivation in Togo has seen significant growth, with production reaching nearly 40,000 tonnes in 2023, marking an increase of over 120% in a decade. Despite this success, stakeholders face numerous challenges for further development of the sector.
Legislative Elections in Togo: An Arbitrary Distribution of Deputies?
The Togolese government has set the legislative elections for April 13, 2024, increasing the number of deputies from 93 to 113. Opposition parties have criticized the distribution of deputies as arbitrary and inequitable.
Togo increases its number of deputies in the National Assembly
The National Assembly of Togo has adopted a text modifying the electoral code, increasing the number of deputies from 91 to 113.
Togo's Largest Bookstore Closes Its Doors
Star Librarie, one of the last major bookstores in Togo, has closed its doors in Lomé due to poor sales, a problem caused by pirated literary works and the non-application of the Florence Agreement on the tax exemption of books. The closure has led to disappointment and sadness among writers and book lovers.
Drug consumption on the rise among young Togolese
In Togo, the consumption of alcohol, cannabis, and other psychotropic substances among young students is increasing, despite strategies implemented by authorities to reduce usage.
The first proposals of the national consultation in Togo
In Togo, the national consultation involving the ruling party and part of the opposition has made proposals to improve the electoral framework ahead of the legislative and regional elections scheduled for early 2024.
The issue of reintegration of prisoners in Togo
The Ministry of Justice of Togo reports that the recidivism rate among former prisoners is nearly 50%, highlighting the significant challenge of reintegrating these individuals into society. This issue is a major concern for public authorities.
The Togolese Opposition Denounces Electoral Redistricting
The Togolese government has announced that regional and legislative elections will be held in the first quarter of 2024. Opposition parties express their intention to participate but criticize the electoral process, particularly highlighting irregularities in voter registration and electoral redistricting.
Togo: The government prioritizes social sectors in the 2024 budget
In Togo, the government has prioritized education, health, and security in its 2024 national budget, which is estimated at over 2 trillion FCFA. The social sector alone accounts for half of the budget projections. During discussions in the National Assembly, there were calls for other sectors to receive more attention from the government.
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Mixed Reactions in Lomé
In Togo, the conflict in the Middle East between Hamas and Israel is also being commented on. While some condemn the violence against civilians, others call for a two-state solution to end the escalation. Reporting from Lomé by correspondent Kossi Woussou.
End of the Peace and Security Forum in Togo
The Lomé Peace and Security Forum in Togo concluded on Sunday, focusing on political transitions in crisis-hit West African countries and governance in Africa. Organized by Togolese authorities, the forum facilitated discussions on these critical issues.
Two Killed in Nationwide Protests in Togo Before Disputed Ballot
At least two people were killed in Togo during clashes between police and demonstrators in a banned nationwide protest ahead of disputed parliamentary elections. The opposition, led by the Alliance Nationale pour le Changement, demands the government halt election preparations and implement promised reforms. The government has banned protests, and the opposition plans to boycott the vote. The protests follow last year's mass demonstrations against President Faure Gnassingbe's rule, which led to negotiations mediated by Ghana and Guinea. The opposition also opposes a government proposal to limit presidential terms without retroactive effect, potentially allowing Gnassingbe to remain in power for another decade.
In Togo, a fire ravaged the Agoényivé market
A fire severely damaged the Agoényivé market, one of the largest in Togo's capital, causing significant material losses. The incident is a major setback for merchants who had recently restocked for the holiday season. The gendarmerie has launched an investigation.
Legislative elections in Togo: the opposition denounces 'a deadlock' in preparations
In Togo, the opposition coalition Dynamique pour la majorité du peuple accuses the government of stalling the organization of the legislative elections scheduled for this year. With three months left before the current National Assembly's mandate ends, no date or schedule has been announced, raising fears of an extension of the Assembly's mandate.
Togo: Discontent Among Wifi-Zone Operators
Operators of Wifi-zones in Togo are protesting against a new regulation by the Authority of Electronic Communications Regulation that requires them to pay a declaration fee. Consumer associations are supporting the operators and urging the government to temporarily suspend the decision.
Togo: support for rural communities
In Togo, rural communities are benefiting from essential equipment aimed at improving their living conditions. These multifunctional platforms are designed to increase income and enhance basic social services by expanding access to energy services. In the village of Afito, the installation of this equipment has significantly changed the lives of its residents.
Political Crisis Overshadows Parliamentary Election in Togo
Togo's parliamentary elections are overshadowed by a yearlong political crisis, with President Faure Gnassingbe's ruling party expected to win due to an opposition boycott. The opposition demands electoral reforms and the release of jailed activists, while the government claims the opposition refused to join the electoral commission. The elections have sparked violence, with calls from civil-society groups and religious leaders to halt the process to prevent further unrest.
Togo: a national volunteer program for out-of-school youth
In Togo, a national volunteer program enables out-of-school or under-schooled youth aged 18 to 35 to receive training for professional integration. They commit to working with local communities for six months, performing public interest tasks in municipalities.
Togo's Opposition Calls on Supporters to Protest Local Election
Togo's main opposition plans nationwide protests to demand the government halt preparations for the Dec. 20 local elections, citing unfulfilled promises made to Ecowas mediators. The opposition seeks constitutional reforms and the release of activists, opposing government proposals that would allow President Faure Gnassingbe to extend his rule. Gnassingbe, in power since 2005, faces criticism for not implementing agreed electoral reforms.
Togo President Gnassingbé to Seek Re-Election in February Ballot
Togo President Faure Gnassingbé will seek re-election in the February 22 ballot after accepting the ruling UNIR party's request. Despite recent reforms limiting a president to two terms, Gnassingbé is allowed to run for two more terms if he wins.
Power Outages in Togo
Togo is experiencing frequent and prolonged power outages, causing significant inconvenience to the population and affecting services and businesses. The national energy distribution company, CEET, attributes the problem to supply issues from Ghana and Nigeria.
The number of deputies increases from 91 to 113 in Togo
The number of deputies in Togo's parliament will increase from 91 to 113, driven by administrative reorganization, demographic changes, and political consensus. The upcoming legislative elections will be held alongside regional elections for the first time. Financial concerns about the increase in deputies are raised by some, while others see it as a redistribution of wealth. No specific date has been set for the elections, but they are expected by the end of the first quarter of 2024. The opposition, which previously boycotted the 2018 elections, is preparing to challenge the ruling party, Union for the Republic (UNIR).
Climate: In Togo, the Togodo Forest Resists Thanks to Conservation
In Togo, protected areas and national parks have been affected by human activity for decades. In the maritime region, the classified Togodo forest is one of the few that resists due to a conservation support project worth nearly one billion FCFA.
A pilot project for reforestation of riverbanks launched in Togo
In Togo, small watercourses, rivers, and streams are disappearing due to deforestation, cultivation of riverbanks, transhumance, and climate aridity. Togolese authorities have initiated a pilot project for reforestation of these riverbanks to regenerate them.
Togolese students required to wear uniforms for school
Togolese students are now required to adhere to a strict school uniform policy as per a new ministerial decree. The regulation aims to eliminate extravagant and provocative clothing, ensuring a standardized dress code across colleges and high schools.
The Togolese government encourages helmet use to counter road mortality
In Togo, over 3,000 traffic accidents resulted in 282 deaths in the first half of the year. According to the police, 69% of the fatalities involved two-wheeled vehicles, primarily due to ignoring traffic lights and not wearing helmets. The Ministry of Security and Civil Protection has decided to take action, currently focusing on raising awareness among motorcycle users.
Electoral Calendar in Togo: Concerns About the Silence of the CENI
In Togo, legislative and regional elections are expected by the end of the year, but the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has yet to announce the election dates following the census. This delay has raised concerns among opposition parties about the lack of communication from the electoral body.
In Togo, authorities want to ban obscenity in music and cinema
In Togo, the government has decided to sanction creators of songs and films that are obscene or violate good morals. The Minister of Culture announced this decision with the aim of ending such practices. The report comes from Lomé, with correspondent Kossi Woussou providing the details.
Togolese producers accuse late approvals of ruining soybean marketing
Togolese soybean producers are dissatisfied with this year's marketing campaign due to delays in its launch and late approvals, which hindered their ability to sell their products.
Togo dissatisfied with the results of its reforestation campaign
Togo's vegetation cover has significantly deteriorated over the past decades. Since 2021, the government has launched a forest regeneration project with the goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2030. However, the country is currently dissatisfied with the progress and results of this reforestation campaign.
Voter Registration in Togo: Opposition Denounces Malfunctions
In Togo, the opposition and civil society are strongly criticizing the electoral registration process for the upcoming legislative and regional elections, particularly in zone 1. They are demanding better organization for the registration process set to begin in zone 2 on Saturday.
Difficulties in Voter Registration in Togo
In Togo, legislative and regional elections are scheduled for this year, though the date has not yet been announced. The independent national electoral commission has started voter registration, but the initial operations in Zone 1 have concluded with significant difficulties.
Togo: the new press code does not protect online publications
In Togo, press organizations are calling for a review of the press and communication code. Article 3 of the new code excludes social networks from the scope of the law governing journalists, which is considered an aberration by the latter.
Malaria, the Silent Killer Almost Normalized in Togo
In Togo, malaria remains the leading cause of medical consultations, with current strategies facing challenges due to public passivity. The Global Protect Initiative, a community engagement movement, seeks to alter behaviors to improve the fight against the disease.
Hotels in Togo made aware of the risks of cybercrime
In Togo, the hospitality and restaurant sector has become a target for cybercriminals due to the digitalization of services. A simulated attack by the National Cybersecurity Agency demonstrated the sector's high vulnerability.
Togolese students visit the 'House of Slaves' in Agbodrafo
In Togo, the coastal town of Agbodrafo was a major hub for the slave trade in the 19th century. The 'House of Slaves' still stands as a testament to this history. On the occasion of the Day of Remembrance of the Slave Trade, this history is being recounted to young students at the very site of these events.
Access to drinking water remains a problem in Lomé
In Togo, access to drinking water remains a major concern. Despite the government's announcement of a 68% supply rate in rural areas and 58% in urban areas, many residents in the capital city of Lomé still rely on wells or boreholes for their water supply.
How to Boost the Development of the Agricultural Sector in Togo?
The Togolese government aims to make agriculture the driving force of the country's development. Forums have been held in various regions, providing agricultural producers the opportunity to present the challenges hindering the sector's growth.
Audit of COVID funds: Togolese government before parliamentarians
The Togolese government has denied allegations of mismanagement of funds allocated for combating the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting that expenditures were compliant, regular, and sincere. This statement was made in response to scrutiny from parliamentarians regarding the handling of these funds.
The President of Togo agrees to mediate in the Mali crisis
The transitional government of Mali has requested Togo to facilitate mediation with other ECOWAS countries regarding sanctions imposed on Mali. A delegation consisting of ministers and members of the National Transition Council recently visited the Togolese capital. Mali has confidently chosen Togo for this role, and the President of Togo has accepted to mediate in the crisis.
I cover Togo political, business and social events for almost 25 years. Currently, BLOOMBERG Stringer in Togo and Chief editor for local Newspapers as LE MEDIUM, Reporter for UNION, L'INTELLIGENT and Radio LUMIERE.
Togo President Extends 15-Year Rule With Election Win
Togo President Gnassingbe secured a fourth term with 72% of the vote, while opposition candidate Agbeyome Kodjo received 18%. Voter turnout was 76%. Gnassingbe has been in power since 2005, following his father's death. Togo's economy grew by 4.9% last year, with Ecobank Transnational Inc. and Asky Airlines headquartered in Lome. Constitutional changes in May allow Gnassingbe to potentially stay in power until 2030, despite mass protests in 2017 and 2018 demanding an end to his rule.
Togo Gets $150 Million Loan From World Bank to Refinance Debt
Togo has secured a $150 million loan from the World Bank to refinance its more expensive debt after the global lender's new board refused to guarantee the initial 300 million euros the country sought. Finance Minister Sani Yaya stated that discussions are ongoing to reach the 300 million euro target, with the funds aimed at improving debt management and achieving electricity access goals. The International Monetary Fund noted Togo's progress in reducing its budget deficit and forecasted economic growth.
Four People Die as Opposition, Police Clash Before Togo Election
Clashes between Togolese police and opposition supporters have resulted in at least four deaths ahead of the controversial parliamentary elections. The opposition, led by a coalition including the Alliance Nationale pour le Changement, demands a halt to election preparations, citing unfulfilled promises by the government. The opposition claims a higher death toll and accuses the government of excluding major parties from the election. The situation follows widespread protests against President Faure Gnassingbe's long rule, with previous mediation efforts by Ghana and Guinea.
Togo Opposition, Government Begin Talks to Resolve Crisis
Representatives of Togo's government and opposition have commenced negotiations to address a political crisis sparked by proposed constitutional changes. The talks, mediated by Ghanaian Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah, will last 10 days and cover issues such as reinstating the 1992 constitution and organizing a national referendum. The opposition rejects the current proposal, which would allow President Faure Gnassingbe to extend his rule, and demands the reinstatement of the 1992 constitution. The crisis has led to months of mass protests and numerous fatalities.
Togo Opposition to Halt Protests as Regional Mediators Arrive
Togo's opposition has agreed to pause protests ahead of mediation talks led by Guinea and Ghana starting February 15, aimed at resolving the political crisis over constitutional reforms. These reforms could allow President Faure Gnassingbe to extend his rule, which has been a point of contention since his father's death in 2005. The government has expressed support for the talks, hoping to expedite political reforms, while the opposition demands that changes be retroactive, opposing the current proposal that could enable Gnassingbe's rule extension by at least a decade.
Asky Takes On Air France as West African Carrier Eyes Europe
Asky Airlines, part-owned by Ethiopian Airlines, plans to expand its route network to Paris and Johannesburg, aiming to increase passenger numbers and revenue. The airline will introduce direct flights from Lome, Togo, to these cities and is considering a route to Beirut. Asky aims to grow independently of Ethiopian Airlines and will add two Boeing 737-800s to its fleet. The airline targets 650,000 passengers this year, up from 600,000 in 2016, and is optimistic about its growth prospects amid rising demand for air travel in West Africa.
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