CRS in Togo

The international community has recognized Togo’s recent gains in stability and reinforcement of infrastructure, as its capital Lomé has become a regional travel hub and conference destination. Following social-political crisis in the 1990s and many years of diplomatic and economic exclusion as a result, other nations are welcoming reengagement with Togo. Nearly 60 percent of the population of 7.7 million is under the age of 25. The Togolese economy is highly dependent on agriculture and is a major producer of phosphates.

Catholic Relief Services works together with the Togolese people to tackle poverty with a holistic approach including projects that enhance community level savings and lending; improve nutrition through food diversification; promote hygiene and sanitation; improve child and maternal health through immunization fostered by civil society; and build peaceful relationships between different identity groups. CRS provides ongoing institutional accompaniment to Togolese Caritas partners and works closely with government and civil society partners.

CRS is expanding its contributions to Togo’s fight against malaria and improvement of basic sanitation infrastructure in rural areas.

CRS' History in Togo

Catholic Relief Services began working in Togo in 1958. In 1992, the office was closed because of the country’s political crisis in the country, but we returned in 1998 at the request of the Conference of Bishops of Togo.

CRS' early years in Togo were characterized by projects to support rural communities in their economic, health, and social development. Project activities included school feeding as well as health and nutrition activities.