Togo/Temporary suspension of mining permits: Towards responsible and inclusive exploitation of natural resources
The Togolese government, through the Ministry of Mines and Energy Resources, has announced a temporary suspension of the issuance of mining permits for the exploration and research of mineral substances. This decision reflects the government’s intention to deeply reform a sector that has long been governed by a Mining Code that has become outdated.
According to the minister, the Mining Code, adopted in 1996 and revised in 2003, no longer meets current requirements or international standards in terms of transparency, environmental protection, and fair benefits for local populations. For Togolese authorities, this “strategic pause” aims to create a rigorous legal framework to better attract investors, ensure a fairer distribution of profits, protect ecosystems, and strengthen economic sovereignty.
The decision by Togolese authorities to temporarily suspend the issuance of exploration authorizations and mining research permits marks a significant shift in the governance of the country’s natural resources. It is a pragmatic choice that allows key sectors to continue operating while rethinking the regulation of the broader mining industry.
This approach is part of a broader reform effort focused on responsible and inclusive resource exploitation. At a time when many African countries are seeking to make better use of their natural wealth, Togo is setting an example by placing legal and environmental considerations at the core of its mining strategy.
