According to the Global Gender Gap Report published by the World Economic Forum, Sub-Saharan Africa has made notable strides in closing the gender gap, improving by an overall 5.6 percentage points since 2006. This progress is evident as 21 out of 35 economies in the region rank within the top 100 globally. Namibia, in particular, stands out as a top-ten performer, showcasing the positive impact of gender-inclusive policies on economic outcomes.

READ ALSO: International Women’s Day: Celebrating the Architects of Change and the Power of ‘She’

One key takeaway from the report is that the “Participation and Opportunity” index currently stands at 68.1%, reflecting significant advancements in labour-force participation and notable progress in women’s representation in technical and professional roles. Increasing women’s engagement in the workforce is not just a matter of equity; it is a crucial driver of economic growth.

Studies have consistently shown that bridging gender inequalities in labour force participation can lead to enhanced Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In many African economies, where agriculture and informal trading dominate, empowering women with access to education, financing, and technology can drive substantial increases in productivity. For instance, Rwanda has become a beacon of gender inclusion, with women playing vital roles in both governance and business, demonstrating that gender equality can be a catalyst for economic growth.

Investing in women’s economic participation has far-reaching benefits, particularly in poverty reduction. Women tend to reinvest up to 90% of their earnings back into their families and communities, improving access to education, healthcare, and overall living standards. Financial inclusion—through mechanisms such as bank accounts, mobile banking, and microloans—further enables women to start businesses and achieve financial independence. Expanding financial services targeted at women is crucial for accelerating economic transitions in the region.

The Global Gender Gap Report highlights African countries making strides in women’s economic participation. Liberia leads the way with an economic participation and opportunity index score of 0.874, ranking first globally. Botswana follows closely with a score of 0.854, ranking second. Other African nations in the top rankings include Eswatini (fourth globally), Togo (11th), Kenya (13th), Zimbabwe (14th), Burundi (15th), Namibia (17th), Madagascar (25th), and Ghana (30th). These countries demonstrate progress in promoting women’s economic empowerment and providing opportunities for women to participate in the workforce.

The advancements showcased by these nations reflect a growing recognition that empowering women is integral to economic development. However, much work remains to be done. Structural and societal barriers must be dismantled to ensure that women can participate fully in all sectors of the economy.

Achieving economic growth and sustainable development in Africa hinges on the active engagement of women. By fostering an environment where women can thrive economically, the continent will not only improve the lives of millions but also propel its economies to new heights. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us commit to championing gender equality and ensuring that women can unlock their full potential in every sphere of life.

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The continent could be well-suited for a common currency when considering the nature of supply shocks that the region experiences. The African economy, comprising 54 nations, was projected to be around US$2.7 trillion in nominal terms in 2021, according to Africa the Statistics Times. Africa’s growth has been influenced by commodity prices; the continent holds a third of the planet’s mineral resources, 10% of the world’s oil reserves, and produces nearly 70% of the global diamond trade.

Historical Context

The idea of a single African currency gained momentum with leaders like the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, who was a strong advocate for the “Gold Dinar.” This proposed currency aimed to replace the US dollar and Euro in African transactions, thereby reducing Western influence and promoting African economic independence.

Gaddafi’s vision was based on creating a gold-backed currency that would unify Africa economically, potentially leading to a continent-wide banking system independent of Western financial institutions. However, his ambitions faced resistance from Western powers, who feared the potential impact on the global economic order.

President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana has expressed support for the Eco, a proposed common currency for the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). He views it as a stepping stone towards broader continental integration, highlighting the potential benefits of a unified economic zone.

Similarly, President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire has also shown enthusiasm for the Eco, believing it could enhance economic stability and growth in the region. Additionally, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has emphasised the need for stronger economic unity in Africa, including the possibility of a single currency as part of the continent’s broader integration efforts.

The Journey of Implementation

The CFA franc is a single currency used by eight independent states in West Africa, which make up the West African Economic and Monetary Union: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.

After decades of negotiations, fifteen countries in West Africa have agreed to adopt a single currency by 2027 called the ECO. The joint currency has been in development for 30 years, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announcing that the rollout will be gradual.

The move will see countries meeting the established criteria joining first, with the eight member states that currently use the CFA franc, which is backed by France, being closely monitored. Although experts are divided on the impact the ECO will have on the region’s economy, with some predicting benefits and others warning of potential risks.

Professor Lumumba P. L. O. (Kenya) argues that a single currency would strengthen Africa’s bargaining power globally and reduce dependence on foreign currencies. He believes it would facilitate easier intra-African trade and cooperation, marking a crucial step towards true African integration.

The Eurozone’s Single Currency vs. Africa’s Potential Unified Currency

The European Union’s experience with the Euro offers valuable insights into the potential outcomes of a unified currency in Africa. The Euro, introduced in 1999, facilitated trade across the Eurozone, eliminated exchange rate risks, and strengthened the EU’s global economic influence. However, the Eurozone also faced significant challenges, particularly during the Eurozone debt crisis.

Africa’s integration is still in its early stages, and a unified currency would require decades of economic and political integration. The African Union (AU) and regional economic communities like ECOWAS are working towards deeper integration, but political and economic diversity remains a significant barrier.

The Eurozone’s success was built on economic convergence, with similar levels of inflation, interest rates, and fiscal policies. In contrast, Africa is characterised by significant disparities in economic development, making it challenging to implement a unified currency. Nigeria and South Africa are economic powerhouses, while others have smaller, less diversified economies. Harmonising economic policies across these vastly different economies would be a substantial hurdle.

The introduction of the Euro involved a transfer of monetary sovereignty to the European Central Bank (ECB), which was crucial for managing the Euro. However, in Africa, ceding monetary control to a continental institution may face resistance. Countries with strong currencies or those benefiting from currency autonomy may be reluctant to relinquish control to a central African bank. This highlights the importance of addressing concerns around sovereignty and monetary policy in any attempt to implement a unified currency in Africa.

Projections and Possible Outcomes

If Africa were to successfully implement a unified currency, the potential benefits could be significant. Intra-African trade could see a substantial boost, as currency exchange costs and risks would be eliminated. This could lead to greater economic integration, making the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) more effective. Additionally, a unified currency could enhance Africa’s bargaining power in international trade and finance, reducing its dependency on external currencies like the US dollar and the Euro.

Dr. Kingsley Moghalu (Nigeria), former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, highlights the potential for a single currency to ease trade barriers, promote economic growth, and reduce currency exchange costs. This could enhance the competitiveness of African economies globally, making it an important step towards African economic integration.

However, the challenges are equally daunting. The success of such a currency would depend on achieving economic convergence, building robust institutions, and securing the political will to implement necessary reforms. The process would likely be gradual, starting with regional currencies like the Eco and eventually moving towards a continental currency.

As quoted by Dr. Vera Songwe (Cameroon), an economist and former Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, a single currency could enhance regional trade and financial integration, particularly within blocs like ECOWAS. While economic structures vary widely, the long-term benefits of reduced transaction costs and increased financial stability could outweigh the initial challenges.

The experience of the Eurozone provides both a model and a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for careful planning and strong institutions. Africa’s diverse economies and political landscapes make the path to a single currency complex, but with concerted efforts, it could become a reality, bringing significant economic benefits to the continent.

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Togo, previously peaceful, recently experienced attacks, signaling a concerning shift. These attacks, likely linked to extremist recruitment efforts, exploit Togo’s socio-economic vulnerabilities. High poverty, illiteracy, and frustration with authoritarian rule provide fertile ground for extremism. Similar to other affected countries like Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, Togo lacks adequate resources and faces operational challenges in combating terrorism. 

The Togolese government has recognized the importance of proactive measures to thwart any potential threats to national security. One aspect of Togo’s approach is its collaboration with regional and international allies, acknowledging that terrorism knows no boundaries. 

Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé recently joined African leaders in Abuja to discuss combating terrorism. He pointed out the need for international funding and military collaboration to tackle the threat. Gnassingbé called for a new military cooperation organization and highlighted Togo’s holistic approach, including social initiatives like PURS and COSO, to promote security and resilience.

Togo’s plans to combat terrorism are exemplified through various initiatives, including strengthening law enforcement agencies, enhancing intelligence capabilities, and implementing stringent border controls. These measures aim to disrupt terrorist networks, prevent the infiltration of extremist elements, and mitigate the risk of attacks.

The country has prioritized counterterrorism strategies that address the root causes of radicalization and extremism. Recognizing the socio-economic factors that contribute to vulnerability to extremist ideologies, the government has invested in education, youth empowerment, and community engagement programs. By addressing underlying grievances and providing alternative pathways, Togo seeks to undermine the appeal of terrorist narratives.

However, despite these efforts, the porous nature of borders in the West African region poses a significant obstacle to effective counterterrorism operations. Transnational terrorist groups, such as Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), operate across porous borders, complicating efforts to contain their activities.

Resource constraints and capacity limitations hinder the implementing of anti-terrorism measures in Togo. Adequate funding, training, and equipment are essential for law enforcement and security agencies to effectively combat terrorism. With sufficient resources, the effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts may be protected.

Another critical aspect is the need for sustained vigilance and adaptability in response to evolving threats. While Togo has made commendable efforts in combating terrorism, there is room for improvement. Terrorist tactics and strategies are constantly evolving, necessitating a dynamic and proactive approach from security forces. Regular assessments and adjustments to counterterrorism policies and procedures are essential to stay ahead of the curve.

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One of the most immediate and devastating impacts of the heat wave was on agriculture. Africa’s predominantly agrarian economies heavily rely on rain-fed agriculture, making them particularly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns. Prolonged heatwaves can lead to droughts, crop failures, and diminished livestock productivity, exacerbating food insecurity and threatening livelihoods. Small-scale farmers, who constitute a significant portion of the population, bear the brunt of these adverse effects, facing diminished harvests and reduced incomes.

A recent study found that a scorching heatwave in West Africa during February was amplified by human-caused global heating, making it 4 degrees Celsius hotter and 10 times more likely. While the exact toll in terms of early deaths or illnesses remains unknown due to underreporting, millions have been affected. The heatwave, occurring in the continent’s largest region, further weakened crops already damaged by extreme rainfall in December, leading to soaring food prices.

The scorching temperatures exacerbated health risks, especially in regions with inadequate access to healthcare and limited infrastructure. Heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular complications became more prevalent, posing a significant threat to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

In urban areas, where concrete structures and limited green spaces aggravated the urban heat island effect, the risk of heat-related illnesses was further heightened. Despite warnings from meteorological organizations in Nigeria and Ghana, many affected countries lacked adequate planning for the dangerous heat. The February heatwave, occurring early in the year, caught many unprepared.

The heatwave also worsened water scarcity, as higher temperatures accelerate evaporation rates and deplete water sources. Communities dependent on rivers, lakes, and groundwater for their water supply currently face increased hardship, with women and girls often bearing the burden of traveling long distances to secure water for their families.

Decreased agricultural productivity, coupled with increased healthcare costs and infrastructure damage, places a significant strain on already fragile economies. Moreover, industries such as tourism, which rely on favorable weather conditions, suffer as extreme heatwaves deter visitors and disrupt outdoor activities.

International climate research organizations determined that without climate change, such a heatwave would have been a rare event, happening less than once a century. They emphasized the deadly consequences of extreme heat, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, those with health conditions, and outdoor workers. Pointing that the need for adaptation to climate change is urgent. Yet funding falls short. While wealthy nations can offer support, reaching net-zero emissions remains the ultimate goal to mitigate such crises.

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Togolese parliament approved the time extension of the emergency on Tuesday as a measure to restore security in the affected region.

The Togolese security minister, Damehame Yark who declared this added that the extension was “necessary for the proper conduct of military operations and a return to peace” in the region.

It would be recalled that Togo had declared a three-month state of emergency in the region in June, after Islamist militants attacked an area near the border with Burkina Faso, killing eight troops and wounding 13.

Recently, however, local media said between 15 and 20 people were killed in a series of attacks on July 15. The army gave no official figures about this incident but insider sources confirmed people were killed and wounded.

Besides, the Togolese defence and security forces were again attacked on August 22 in the village of Blamonga, close to the border with Burkina Faso. A few soldiers were injured during an exchange of fire that lasted several minutes before armed groups retreated.

But Togo, after Benin, Ghana and Ivory Coast, is the latest country on the coast of West Africa to become the target of Islamist militants coming from the Sahel region.

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The WHO regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti who disclosed this said the ministers have also launched a new campaign to curb sickle cell disease.

Also, Moeti noted that it was one of the most common, yet least recognized illnesses in the region. However, like childhood tuberculosis, she says it has been pushed to the sidelines for far too long.

After a week of discussions about some of Africa’s most pressing health issues, countries adopted a new strategy for creating more resilient public health systems for responding to infectious and chronic diseases, such as diabetes. The WHO said early diagnosis and care could save the lives of many of the millions who die from the diseases.

However, more than 400 people participated from 47 countries, including about 30 health ministers, who attended the top annual health gathering in person, while others joined online.

The plan also commits countries to reach critical targets by 2030 to strengthen their ability to prepare, detect, and respond to health emergencies.

“As we have seen with COVID-19, the impact of sickle cell disease extends well beyond health, posing significant economic and social costs for patients and their families. We cannot afford to continue ignoring the threat, so greater investments, and stronger collaboration and partnerships, need to be prioritized,”

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Togo’s membership of AFC also makes it the 12th West African member of AFC after Nigeria, Guinea Bissau, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Liberia, Guinea, Chad, Cape Verde, Benin and Côte d’Ivoire.

Togo has in recent years delivered one of the highest growth rates across the continent, averaging over 5% since the beginning of the commodity downturn (2011), against a continental average of less than 4% during the same time period, as well as impressively low inflation rate, projected to come in at just 0.5% in 2018. As the World Bank notes, this has been a result of Togo’s fiscal disciple and prudent monetary policy.

As a consequence of the retrenchment of public capital spending, however, the Togolese economy grew 0.5% slower in 2017 (4.5%) than 2016, with the construction industry being one of the main casualties.

To overcome this, the Togolese government launched in August 2018 the National Development Plan (PND), which will seek to attract US$ 5.4 billion in private sector investment, with the infrastructure sector as a key investment priority. Projects currently earmarked include the Port of Lome, an Airport hub and Railway infrastructure amongst others.

Established in 2007, AFC invests across five sectors of infrastructure: Power, Telecommunications, Transport & Logistics, Natural Resources and Heavy Industries. To date, the Corporation is invested US$ 4.5 billion across 28 African countries.

Togo’s milestone decision to join the Corporation will therefore enhance its ability to access AFC’s award-winning capacity for infrastructure development, financing expertise to complement the PND’s objectives as well as the Corporation’s advisory services to modernize and bolster its economy.

Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of AFC commented on the announcement: “We are very pleased to welcome the Togolese Republic as the Member State of AFC.

“Earlier this year, we saw the country outline its very ambitious plan for modernizing its economy, and in particular its infrastructure, through the PND announced last August. As Africa’s leading investor in the sector, we therefore stand ready to become Togo’s go-to partner for infrastructure financing and development.”

H.E. Sani Yaya, Minister of Economy and Finance, Republic of Togo, commented:

“Africa needs to find ways to enable and accelerate infrastructure development if it is to reach its fullest economic, environmental and social potential. It is for this reason that we have sought to make infrastructure development, a key priority of our 2018 – 2022 National Development Plan. We recognize that there are technical challenges and constraints for which we need International partners such as AFC, with its investment grade rating and pan- African footprint, to provide us with much-needed assistance in implementing the PND.

Africa Finance Corporation, through its track record of delivery of sustainable infrastructure assets and projects, provides the nexus between sustainable development, investment and integration across the continent and globally”.

H.E. Prof. Robert Dussey, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and African Integration, Republic of Togo also stated:

“H.E the President of the Republic of Togo has placed attracting foreign direct investment, and enabling regional integration, as a critical plank in Togo’s investment strategy.

We are delighted to become members of AFC; as one of the largest financiers and developers of infrastructure in Africa, AFC is a strong partner perfectly placed to assist Togo in realizing its investment objectives, improving the quality of Togo’s infrastructure, and enabling Togo to expedite economic development through regional integration for the benefit of all our people.”

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This project follows a competitive dialogue launched in January 2018. It includes the participation of Siemens, which wishes to be actively involved in the electrification efforts of the Togolese Republic, and will provide the turbines, technology and maintenance services for the power plant.

The construction will be carried out by the Spanish group Grupo TSK (EPC). As for the financing to be mobilized in CFA francs, the West African Development Bank (BOAD) and the pan-African banking group Oragroup will be the lead partners. The Eranove group will develop, operate and maintain this plant, which will eventually be operated and managed by Togolese people.

With an installed capacity of 65 MW, the Kékéli Efficient Power gas plant will use combined cycle technology. The technology makes it possible to produce more electricity without extra gas consumption while limiting CO2 emissions into the atmosphere, thereby contributing to electricity production that respects the sector’s economic and financial balance and the environment.

According to Mr. Marc Dèdèriwè Ably-Bidamon, Togo’s Minister of Mines and Power, the structuring and strategic project is in line with the dual will of his Excellency Mr. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé and the Government to promote the national economy and cope with the ever-increasing demand for electrical power.

The Minister also says that the plant will be at the service of the development of the entire Togo development and provide extra electrical power for some 263,000 Togolese households.

Developing the Kékéli Efficient Power plant in Togo is also an important step in the growth of the pan-African industrial group Eranove. Eranove already operates 1,247 MW of generating capacity and is currently developing projects aiming to bring 1,000 MW to the continent’s service.

“We are very happy and extremely proud to contribute in designing the national strategy and implementing the National Development Plan by developing the new electricity production unit alongside the Togolese Republic, and we thank the country’s authorities for their trust. Thanks to its recognized expertise and African roots, Eranove Group constantly strives to develop structuring, efficient and adapted projects for the continent. In order to ensure a successful quality public/private partnership, we have assembled an innovative pan-African financing mechanism denominated exclusively in CFA francs (a first for an Independent Electricity Producer in Africa) mobilized by regional institutions, as well as by renowned pan-European technical partners with Eranove, Siemens and TSK. The project is a perfect illustration of the model we want to promote in order to meet the challenge of access to electricity and water in Africa”, says Marc Albérola, CEO of Eranove Group.

Backed by its leading shareholder Emerging Capital Partners (ECP), a pan-African leader in private equity raising $3 billion of assets dedicated to the African continent, Eranove Group is developing numerous projects in Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Madagascar, and Mali.

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The reports will be presented at a regional e-commerce workshop organized by UNCTAD and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

“Studies carried out by UNCTAD show that vast reform projects are needed for Burkina Faso, Senegal and Togo to seize fully the development opportunities offered by e-commerce, and that they will require ambitious actions on the part of governments. UNCTAD is here to help them,” UNCTAD Deputy Secretary-General Isabelle Durant said.

“This is a win-win strategy, which must be pursued because e-commerce is now a key gateway to foreign markets.”

The workshop, the first step in the preparation of a regional plan, will be inaugurated by Ms. Durant in the presence of the ECOWAS agriculture, water resources and the environment commissioner Jonas Gbian and Daouda Ouedraogo, a representative of Burkina Faso’s commerce, industry and handicrafts ministry.

While taking account of each country’s specific circumstances, the UNCTAD evaluations highlighted the common obstacles they face.

Although each is committed to building a digital ecosystem, none currently have a dedicated e-commerce strategy. And low-levels of internet accessibility and service quality, due to a lack of competition in the telecommunications sector, is a significant obstacle to the digital growth.

Weak and costly hard infrastructure, and logistics services that are not well integrated by operators, make deliveries of consumer good bought or sold online to “the last mile” often impossible.

Despite increased dynamism in the development of electronic payment systems, competition remains limited and online payments remain marginal. Cash payments on delivery are standard.

Although legal frameworks comply with ECOWAS regulations, their implementation remains insufficient and takes little account of the emerging aspects of the digital ecosystem.

Meanwhile, a significant gap remains between the needs of businesses and the knowledge of students, with schooling oriented towards traditional commerce.

Finally, Burkina Faso, Senegal and Togo share difficulties accessing finance to support e-commerce ventures.

The assessment found that e-commerce expansion is taking place mainly in the informal economy, through private classifieds sites and social networks, while a small number of professional operators have developed platforms covering sectors such as agribusiness, clothing, IT and household appliances.

“Burkina Faso must capitalize on the strengths identified by the study: the process towards the digitalization of public services, a competitive telecommunications sector, the development of broadband internet infrastructure, a science park and dynamic start-ups. The proposed roadmap will enable us to accelerate the country’s digitization,” said Burkina Faso’s commerce, industry and handicrafts minister Harouna Kabore.

Under the aegis of Burkina Faso’s Plan National de Développement Économique et Social, the “Burkina Start-Ups” programme financially supports start-ups. But their growth and structuring as companies often remain uncertain.

Dakar has become a laboratory of tech start-ups. Fintech players are already trying to penetrate the local market by forming strategic partnerships.

The e-commerce sector in Senegal is relatively dynamic, compared to many of its West African neighbours. Internationally renowned firms, such as Jumia, have established a strong presence by relying on the local market and the Senegalese diaspora abroad. Others, on a smaller scale, are trying to find a place in a market destined to grow.

However, apart from a small number of operators, e-commerce is developing mainly in the informal economy, through private classified sites, aggregator sites and social networks.

“The impact of the development of e-commerce in the structural transformation of the Senegalese economy is well established. This is why, thanks to UNCTAD’s assessment of Senegal’s readiness for e-trade, efforts will be more focused on mobilizing stakeholders, the state, the private sector and eTrade for all partners to remove obstacles, identify and implement its flagship recommendations,” Senegal’s investment, partnerships and teleservices minister Khoudia Mbaye said.

Several factors have contributed to the development of e-commerce: broadband internet (mainly in the big cities), a legal framework set up in 2008, electronic means of payment via mobile telephony, and people trained in information and communications technologies. However, there are several logistical and financial challenges to overcome before these favourable conditions can be exploited.

The potential for the development of e-commerce in Togo is limited: there is a weak internet infrastructure, few online payments, and it is difficult to make or receive deliveries outside of the capital Lomé. However, tech start-ups are bursting with innovative solutions that make it possible to work around existing problems.

“My ministry is strongly committed to making e-commerce a powerful engine for economic growth, inclusive trade and job creation in Togo. This new assessment has identified the development of e-commerce as one of the strategic sectors that should promote trade and remove barriers to trade,” said Togo’s commerce minister Essossimna Legzim-Balouki.

The German government funded the Rapid eTrade Readiness Assessments as part of its support to UNCTAD’s eTrade for all initiative.

This initiative provides countries with capacity-building solutions for e-commerce and optimizing synergies between different partners.

It has 29 partners, seven of whom will participate in the Ouagadougou workshop: the World Bank Group, the African Development Bank, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the International Trade Centre, the World Trade Organization, Universal Postal Union, and the Africa Civil Society for the Information Society.

UNCTAD has conducted e-commerce assessments for developing countries since 2016, recognizing that policymaking will need to move quickly if least developed countries are to capitalize on rapidly changing economics.

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At least 24 villages in the Kara region are expected to benefit from a new health initiative spearheaded by electronics giant, Samsung, the Togo Ministry of Health and Vision Togo. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is a facility mounted onto a truck and is fully equipped to assist community members in the prevention and diagnosis of medical conditions. The truck will move between Lome and Kara in an eight week rotation to ensure maximum outreach.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Togo’s Minister of Health, Prof. Moustafa Mijiyawa, says: “We wish to cultivate a culture of proactive healthcare in Togo. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic supports our mission in championing a healthy nation with our people – to live well, live long and with peace of mind.”

Sir Paul Judge, founder of Vision Togo says: “We are encouraged by this partnership as it supports our goal to reduce inequalities in Togo. We forsee so many communities benefitting from these medical services and the Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is best placed to help us do this. We hope to roll out more clinics in other regions in the future. The mobile clinic will enable last mile health interventions as well as real time data gathering which is essential to improving overall access to healthcare in Togo.”

A large focus will be placed on screening people to establish conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, tooth decay and cataracts. The mobile clinic will also be used to educate the communities about health issues and encouraging people to take tests as a preventative measure.

The Chief of Kpagouda, a village elder, says that the arrival of the mobile clinic in the village will contribute a lot to the reduction of tropical diseases and above all help improve efficiency in the local health system. “It will also empower women, since the clinic arrives direct to the village and they do not need to raise money to travel far to a health facility. It is a great honour for our village to be selected on the route of the mobile clinic.”
Mr. Lee Changwook, managing director for Samsung Electronics West Africa says: “Delivering effective healthcare in the continent usually means doing things differently. The Samsung Mobile Health Clinic is designed for use in remote rural areas, and intended to eliminate the economic and geographical barriers that prevent people from obtaining free quality medical attention.”

“We continuously strive to make a positive change in people’s lives through our technology and expertise and help the United Nations in tackling the SDGs in Africa to achieve the agreed targets. We are confident the mobile clinic will bring positive change to the lives of people in Togo,” he adds.

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