• The UN cuts Togo’s 2023 population estimate to 8.13 million, from about 9.3 million.
• The revision lifts GDP per capita to $1,281 in 2024, about 14% higher than earlier estimates.
• Long-term demographic growth trends remain unchanged.

Togo’s population is lower than previously estimated. That is the main conclusion of an update released on January 19, 2026 by the United Nations Population Division.

Based on detailed results from the 2022 general census, the revision corrects a significant statistical gap and reshapes several of the country’s key economic indicators.

Revised projections after the 2022 census

Before the update, the World Population Prospects 2024 estimated Togo’s population at about 9.3 million in 2023, based on earlier international projections.

However, consolidated results from the fifth General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-5) show a lower figure for the same period.

After integrating the detailed 2022 census data, the UN Population Division now estimates Togo’s population at about 8.133 million as of January 1, 2023.

The discrepancy stems from the fact that previous international estimates relied largely on projections derived from older data, particularly the 2010 census. The January 2026 update reflects the adjustment of those projections using observed 2022 results, with technical support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

The United Nations specified that the revision concerns Togo only and does not affect data for other countries.

What changes in practical terms

At first glance, the revision may appear purely statistical. Its implications, however, are concrete.

Population figures are widely used by international institutions including the World Bank, credit rating agencies, development banks, investors and research firms. Many key indicators are calculated on a per capita basis.

These actors often rely on UN data to build rankings and assessments. Income per capita, debt per capita and several development indices depend directly on population size. An overestimated population can distort cross-country comparisons and influence how an economy is perceived externally.

The revision has a direct impact on gross domestic product per capita.

Under the previous demographic base, GDP per capita was estimated at $951.2 in 2022 and $1,119.4 in 2024. With the updated population data, the ratio now stands at $1,206.93 in 2023 and $1,281.04 in 2024 — an increase of about 14% for 2024 compared with the earlier estimate.

This statistical correction could alter how Togo’s income level is viewed in international comparisons.

For national authorities, accurate data are also essential for planning schools, health centers, jobs and infrastructure. UNFPA, which supports Togo in census operations and national statistics, regularly stresses that sound public policy begins with reliable numbers.

Demographic momentum remains strong

Beyond the revision, Togo’s underlying demographic trends remain intact.

The country remains young, with a majority of its population under 25. Fertility has been declining gradually for decades but remains relatively high. Life expectancy continues to improve, reflecting progress in health conditions and survival rates.

Updated median projections indicate that the population will continue to grow steadily in the coming decades. By 2030, it could exceed 9 million and continue rising through 2060.

In other words, the long-term trajectory does not change. Only the starting point has been adjusted.

The next full global revision of demographic prospects is expected in July 2027. Until then, data users are advised to rely on this interim update for any analysis concerning Togo.

Fiacre E. Kakpo