Togo ushers in digital revolution for urban public transport
Lomé, January 2026 – Togo’s public transportation system is leaping into the digital age. Starting this year, passengers in the capital will access SOTRAL (Lomé Transport Company) buses exclusively through mobile ticketing—a flagship reform under President Faure Gnassingbé’s push for a modern, inclusive, and tech-driven Togo.
Seamless mobility
The Transport Ministry’s newly implemented USSD system allows commuters to purchase bus tickets via basic mobile phones—no smartphones or internet required.
This follows a successful 2024 pilot program serving university routes, which saw a 30% increase in ridership efficiency.
By the numbers
- 500+ daily tripsacross Lomé
- 26,000 passengersserved daily
- 100% cashless payments by 2026
A broader vision
The initiative anchors Togo’s sweeping public service modernization agenda, aligning with Gnassingbé’s governance model that prioritizes:
- Tech-enabled efficiency(reducing fare evasion by 40% in trials)
- Sustainable urban growth(cutting emissions via optimized routes)
- Financial inclusion(unbanked users can now pay via mobile credit)
Transport Minister Affoh Atcha-Dedji emphasized: “This isn’t just about tickets—it’s about building smart infrastructure for future-ready cities.” With Lomé as the testing ground, nationwide rollout plans are already underway.
Why it matters
As Togo positions itself as West Africa’s digital hub, the transport overhaul exemplifies how targeted tech adoption can transform citizen services—one bus ride at a time.
Chantal TAWELESSI
