Togo : Emerging digital hub and best destination for telecommunications investors

The Togolese telecommunications market is posting good figures. Overall sales in the sector reached $207 million (127.7 billion FCFA) in the first half of 2024, up 11% on the same period the previous year, according to a report by the Electronic Communications and Posts Regulatory Authority (ARCEP). This growth is explained by increased demand for mobile and Internet services, which now cover a large proportion of the population. Togo Cellulaire, a subsidiary of Togocom, recorded a notable 13.6% increase in sales, reaching $115 million (71.3 billion CFA francs). Moov Africa Togo, another major player, also saw an increase, albeit modest, of 0.7%, with sales of $51 million (31.6 billion CFA francs). Meanwhile, fixed-line telephony, mainly managed by Togo Telecom, generated $29 million (18.4 billion FCFA), up 18.7%.

Contribution of international investment, for digital transformation

Investments from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a subsidiary of the World Bank, are strengthening the development of the sector in Togo. In 2023, Togocom received funding of around $59 million (36 billion FCFA) to modernize its infrastructure and extend the 4G network and fiber optics. This collaboration illustrates Togo’s commitment to improving national connectivity, reducing the digital divide while stimulating the economy.

This funding will enable Togocom to achieve 95% mobile and fixed Internet coverage by 2025. Togo’s telecommunications market offers attractive potential for investors, thanks to a constantly growing sector and reforms conducive to innovation. Increasing penetration rates, rising operator revenues and growing demand for broadband connectivity are all indicators of a dynamic and promising market. Digital transformation, supported by strategic partnerships and investments, is opening up new prospects for companies wishing to position themselves in a buoyant sector and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Impact of regulator ARCEP

The authority plays a key role in ensuring healthy competition between operators and protecting consumer rights. Since obtaining ISO 9001-2015 certification in December 2023, ARCEP has applied high management quality standards, contributing to a favorable environment for investors. In 2022, it brought in $6 million (4 billion CFA francs) to the state budget, reflecting its effectiveness in managing and sanctioning operators for non-compliance with regulations.

According to a report by the Electronic Communications and Posts Regulatory Authority (ARCEP), Togo’s telecommunications sector attracted more than 7.3 million mobile subscribers, representing a penetration rate of 87.5%. This represents year-on-year growth of 9%. Demand for mobile Internet services also rose sharply: the number of subscribers reached 5.6 million, representing a penetration rate of 66.56%, up 10% on the previous year. The growth of 4G is also significant, with a 62% increase in subscribers for Togo Cellulaire. Fixed-line data services are not to be outdone, with a 33% increase in subscribers for GVA Togo, a fiber-optic-based Internet provider now serving 70,000 customers.

Togo moves closer to its ambition of becoming a digital hub in West Africa, with greater access to quality services, technological innovations and enhanced digital inclusion for all.