As government bodies across the continent accelerate their digital transformation, Togo is making a concerted effort to re-establish its national archives as a cornerstone of public life. In Lomé, experts and state officials recently convened for International Archives Day, engaging in critical discussions about the pivotal role archives play in safeguarding fundamental rights, preserving collective memory, and enhancing public sector governance.

Beyond their intrinsic value as historical repositories, archives are recognized as powerful instruments for fostering transparency, ensuring justice, and boosting administrative efficiency. These crucial issues formed the core of a dedicated day of reflection held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Direction de la Bibliothèque et des Archives nationales (DBAN). The event was framed under the theme: « Archives for justice: rights, memory, and futures ».

This significant gathering, organized in collaboration with the Association togolaise des bibliothécaires, archivistes et documentalistes (ATBAD), was part of the global celebration of International Archives Day. Its primary objective was to underscore the vital contributions of archival services to the preservation of national heritage, the protection of citizens’ entitlements, and the strengthening of accountability within public administration.

archives: a cornerstone of modern african governance

The proceedings were formally inaugurated by Professor Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. In his opening address, he emphasized that robust archives are an indispensable component of state modernization and the ongoing efforts to improve public services. This highlights a key aspect of African current affairs, focusing on institutional development.

According to the Minister, an effective system for managing documents not only safeguards Togo’s rich administrative and historical legacy but also streamlines access to vital information, thereby strengthening the bond of trust between governmental institutions and their citizens.

Professor Tchangbedji also commended the forward-thinking initiatives led by President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. These include significant strides in the digital transformation of public administration, particularly through the advancement of e-governance, which is seen as a crucial tool for bringing government services closer to the populace.

anticipating recommendations to bolster Togo’s archive services

Beyond formal addresses, the conference featured numerous thematic presentations, sparking lively debates among archival professionals, librarians, documentalists, and representatives from various public administrations.

Discussions delved into the multifaceted challenges associated with document preservation, digitization processes, ensuring accessibility, and the fundamental role archives play in upholding rights and facilitating the sound administration of justice.

At the conclusion of the event, participants collectively reaffirmed the strategic importance of archives in shaping the national memory. They expressed a strong desire that the recommendations generated from these discussions would significantly and sustainably enhance the capabilities of Togo’s archival services, especially as the nation navigates the accelerating pace of its administrative digital transition.