CESAM Report: an in-depth diagnosis of Togo's entrepreneurial ecosystem

The In-depth Diagnosis of the Togolese Entrepreneurial Ecosystem 2024 report, produced by CESAM, complements the findings of the initial diagnosis carried out by Adelphi in 2023, based on extensive data collection and tripartite dialogues between key players (private structures, CSOs, local authorities). This in-depth work identified challenges and opportunities to help improve the entrepreneurial ecosystem in its role of supporting young businesses, particularly those run by young people and women. 

Different progress in the Togolese entrepreneurial ecosystem

Although Togo has a strong political will to promote entrepreneurship, and businesses set up by women and young people are recording significant growth in Togo, most individual businesses are faced with issues such as a lack of resources and skills, limited access to financing, infrastructure and technologies that hamper competitiveness, and a high concentration of support services in Lomé, which amplifies regional disparities.

Several entrepreneurship projects and programs have been implemented in Togo between 2020 and 2024 to support these entrepreneurs, with varying impacts on the Togolese entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Challenges and opportunities

After highlighting the profiles of entrepreneurs in Togo, this study presents the main strengths and weaknesses of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, highlighting the opportunities to be seized and the challenges to be met to stimulate inclusive and sustainable development of entrepreneurship, particularly in terms of access to financing, business support services and entrepreneurial culture.

What are the levers for the sustainable development of entrepreneurship in Togo?

Although still in the activation phase, Togo's entrepreneurial ecosystem is brimming with potential. The report outlines strategic actions to strengthen business support services (BSS), improve access to financing, promote an entrepreneurial culture, and ensure institutional coordination and dissemination of best practices.

These strategic actions could not only boost business creation and growth, but also contribute to sustainable development by stimulating innovation, creating jobs and empowering young people and women.
The diagnostic summary is available as a free download by clicking below.