## Togo Tightens Control Over Online Speech Amidst Political Unrest

In Togo, the authorities reiterate their desire to control online speech to restrict the use of social networks in a context of intense political confrontation in the country of more than 9.5 million inhabitants.

From June 2025 demonstrations broke out in the country against a regime that has been in power for more than 50 years. The Internet and messaging platforms play a large role in this mobilization triggered by Togolese living outside the country. Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, digital platforms where Togolese living abroad and in the country meet to express their frustration with the regime Faure Gnassingbé in power since 2005.

Since June, internet disruptions have been frequent and numerous online media stopped working, or are no longer accessible in Togolese territory, unless a virtual private network (VPN) is used.

Political crisis of power

At the end of September, when the disturbances ceased, another surprise awaited Togolese netizens: an embargo was imposed on the different channels for disseminating messages from cyberactivists.

On October 3,2025,in a press conference, Talaka Mawana, attorney of the republic, announced the authorities’ decision to strengthen the fight against the abusive use of social networks:

Anyone who produces, reproduces, distributes, publishes, shares through a digital platform, a fact which falls outside the legal framework in force, will be the subject of criminal proceedings without compromise and without complacency.

Whoever produces, reproduces, disseminates, publishes, disseminates through a digital platform an event that goes beyond the current legal framework, will be subject to criminal proceedings without agreement or leniency.

The attorney even went so far as to include netizens who “like” or comment on, approve or validate that content:

The same will apply to anyone who publishes a comment validating an illegal publication. Complicity by approval also exposes us to prosecution, because the law requires us all to denounce any crime or offense of which we become aware.

It will be the same for anyone who posts a comment that validates an illegal publication. Complicity by approval also exposes one to judicial processes,since the law requires everyone to report any crime of which we are aware.

talaka Mawana also mentions the existing legal framework with texts and laws applicable in case of non-compliance with the new principles established by the authorities:

When using these digital platforms, we end up committing acts that qualify as offenses, the Togolese legal framework makes it possible to provide an appropriate response. This legal framework is therefore mainly made up of lega

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Togo’s telecom Sector Reports Strong Growth in First Half of 2024, Reaching 127 Billion FCFA

Togo’s telecommunications market demonstrated robust growth in the first half of 2024, with a total turnover of 127 billion FCFA (approximately 211 million USD). This represents a important increase compared to previous periods, driven by a surge in mobile subscriptions and data consumption. The sector’s performance underscores the increasing importance of digital connectivity in the West african nation.

Key Drivers of Growth

Several factors contributed to the positive performance of Togo’s telecom sector:

• Mobile Subscription Growth: Togo has experienced a substantial increase in mobile phone penetration, with a growing proportion of the population accessing mobile services. As of January 2024, mobile penetration rate was 153.8% (Agence Togolaise des Régulations des Télécommunications – ATRT).
• data Consumption: Increased access to smartphones and affordable data plans have fueled a significant rise in data consumption. Togolese citizens are increasingly reliant on mobile data for various online activities, including social media, streaming, and online commerce.
• Mobile Money Services: The widespread adoption of mobile money services, facilitated by telecom operators, has further boosted sector revenue. Mobile money provides convenient and accessible financial solutions for a large segment of the population.
• Digital Transformation Initiatives: Government initiatives promoting digital inclusion and the development of a digital economy have created a favorable surroundings for telecom growth.

Market Share and Key Players

The Togolese telecom market is primarily dominated by three major operators:

• Togo Telecom: The incumbent operator, Togo Telecom, continues to hold a significant market share.
• MTN Togo: A major player in the market, MTN Togo offers a comprehensive range of mobile services.
• Moov Africa Togo: Moov Africa Togo is another key competitor, providing mobile and data services.

According to the ATRT report, Moov Africa Togo leads the market with a 66.56% market share, followed by MTN Togo and Togo Telecom.

Financial Performance – First Half 2024

The total turnover of 127 billion FCFA represents a substantial increase compared to previous periods. The sector’s financial performance reflects the growing demand for telecom services and the triumphant strategies implemented by operators to attract and retain customers.

Breakdown of Revenue

• Mobile Services: The largest contributor to revenue, driven by voice calls, SMS, and data services.
• Mobile Money: A rapidly growing revenue stream,fueled by the increasing adoption of mobile payment solutions.
• Value-added Services: Revenue generated from services such as premium content, mobile advertising, and enterprise solutions.

Future Outlook

The outlook for Togo’s telecom sector remains positive.With a large and growing mobile user base and the increasing need for digital dialog,demand for telecom services is expected to continue rising. The ongoing expansion of 4G and 5G networks,coupled with government initiatives to promote digital inclusion,will further drive growth. The increasing number of Togolese netizens suggests that online activities will remain strong.

FAQ

Q: What is the current mobile penetration rate in Togo?

A: As of January 2024, the mobile penetration rate in Togo was 153.8% (ATRT).

Q: Which telecom operator has the largest