History
The Portuguese, arrived in Togo at the end of the fifteenth century. They were followed by the Danes, French, British and Germans.

The German established a protectorate over Togoland in 1884.

At the beginning of the First World War (1914-18) French and British troops captured Togoland.

In 1922 a League of Nations mandate divided the administration of Togoland into two: the French were given the east of the country and Britain had administration of the west.

In 1957 the British region of Togoland became part of Ghana and the French area of Togoland became self-governing. Togo achieved independence in 1960.

Economy
Togo's agricultural sector provides a significant percentage of the Gross Domestic Product; much of the labour force earns a living from subsistence farming.

Principal cash crops are cotton, cocoa, coffee and soy beans. Food crops are beans, corn, millet, sorghum, cassava, yams and groundnuts. Livestock is reared.

Togo is an important producer of phosphate. Resources also include limestone and marble. Other industries are cement, handicrafts, textiles, agricultural processing and beverages. (2008)

Arts
Crafts in Togo are pottery, wood carving, metalwork, basket work, cloth weaving, batik, embroidery and jewellery.

Paul Ahyi is a well known Togolese artist. His works can be seen in a number of countries including Benin, Senegal and South Korea.

Music and dance are an intrinsic part of Togo's cultural life. Togo is particularly famous for drumming which accompanies many celebrations.

Sport
Football is the most popular sport in Togo. Other team games include basketball and volleyball.

Lake Togo is a popular destination for water sports.

Holidays
All religious holidays are celebrated. A number of festivals, such as harvest festivals, take place in the different regions. Independence Day - from the French administered UN trusteeship - is on 27 April.

News
News from Togo is available from Newslink.

Previous Page | Facts | Gallery