How the EU secures its last strategic outpost in West Africa

The European Union has once again underlined its commitment to deepening ties with Togo, positioning the West African nation as a critical partner amid escalating global tensions. Speaking in Lomé during the Europe Day observance on May 9, Gwilym Ceri Jones, Head of the EU Delegation to Togo, emphasized the bloc’s dedication to supporting African countries through cooperation grounded in international law.

In a world grappling with geopolitical instability, armed conflicts, and economic downturns, the EU reaffirmed its role as a reliable partner for nations like Togo. Jones highlighted the tangible outcomes of this collaboration, including development aid programs and targeted economic and social support initiatives.

Tangible progress in infrastructure and services

The EU’s engagement in Togo has yielded measurable results, benefiting over 1.3 million Togolese through electrification initiatives and providing waste collection and treatment systems to more than 2.5 million people. The rehabilitation of the RN2 highway—linking Lomé to Aného and the Benin border—further strengthens regional connectivity, a priority for both local economies and European trade interests.

Additionally, the EU has pledged to support a 18% increase in Togo’s electricity production, leveraging renewable energy sources. This commitment aligns with the bloc’s broader climate goals while addressing the country’s growing energy demands. The announcement also underscores the strategic importance of sustainable development in West Africa, where access to reliable power can deter instability and social unrest.

A strategic partner in regional security and mediation

Togo’s role as a host to 60,000 refugees in its northern regions, coupled with its diplomatic efforts in the Sahel and Great Lakes areas, has not gone unnoticed. The EU has praised Lomé’s leadership in conflict resolution and its proactive stance against terrorism, particularly given the deteriorating security landscape in neighboring Sahelian countries.

By strengthening its alliance with Togo, the EU is effectively securing a key buffer zone against instability, preventing spillover into the Gulf of Guinea. The recognition of Togo’s defense forces as a stabilizing force in the region further cements Lomé’s position as an indispensable partner for Brussels in its geopolitical strategy.

This evolving partnership transcends mere development aid; it reflects a mutual dependency where Togo’s stability and diplomatic influence serve as a linchpin for European interests in West Africa. As other regional powers face growing distrust from African nations, the EU’s choice to consolidate its relationship with Togo highlights the country’s unique role as a reliable and forward-thinking ally.