By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
Michel
Rogy, Regional Practice Director for Digital and AI at the World Bank, has
outlined key priorities for advancing Togo’s digital transformation following a
high-level mission to the country.
During
engagements in Lomé, discussions were held with government officials, telecom
operators, internet service providers, startups and development partners,
including Cina Lawson, Minister of Public Service Efficiency and Digital
Transformation, as well as representatives from Agence Togo Digital.
Rogy
identified data governance as a central pillar of Togo’s digital agenda,
stressing the need for robust frameworks to enable data sharing,
interoperability and trust. He noted that unlocking the value of data is
critical to driving innovation and delivering impact across sectors.
He
also highlighted that building artificial intelligence readiness requires
foundational investments in compute capacity, modern hosting infrastructure,
skilled talent and strong institutional delivery mechanisms to move from pilot
projects to scalable solutions.
Execution,
he added, remains the key differentiator, pointing to Togo’s push for
end-to-end digitalisation across ministries with a focus on service quality,
usage and measurable outcomes.
The
priorities align with the Cotonou Declaration, which emphasises digital public
infrastructure, data governance, regional integration and inclusive digital
transformation.
Looking
ahead, Togo is expected to validate its national AI strategy through a
government seminar in April, followed by a Vision 2035 exercise in June. Work
is also underway to develop a Digital and AI Compact in collaboration with the
World Bank Group.
The
initiatives form part of broader efforts to position Togo as a regional hub for
digital innovation and technology-driven economic growth.
