Togo: A strategic pause for in-depth reform with the suspension of mining permits
The Togolese government has announced a temporary suspension of the issuance of mining permits for the exploration and research of mineral substances. This decision, made official through a decree from the Ministry of Mines and Energy Resources, marks a significant step toward an ambitious reform of the national Mining Code. The goal is clear: to strengthen the existing legal framework in order to better regulate mining activities.
According to the ministry, this suspension is described as a “strategic pause”. It aims to create the necessary conditions for adopting a more rigorous, sustainable, and transparent framework. This move reflects Togo’s intention to move away from opaque extractive practices and prioritize responsible management of natural resources for the benefit of the population.
The upcoming reform is expected to incorporate principles of environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic accountability. In the long term, it will help prevent the granting of permits to non-compliant operators or those indifferent to the long-term impacts of their activities. This is further proof that the Togolese authorities are committed to turning the country’s underground wealth into a genuine driver of national development.
Therefore, the current suspension should not be seen as a setback for the mining sector, but rather as a strong signal to partners, investors, and citizens: Togo is changing course. This legislative revision process is laying the groundwork for a healthier, safer, and more equitable environment for all stakeholders.
