• Togo launches cash transfer programme for over 700,000 vulnerable households
• Each household to receive 25,000 CFA via mobile money platforms
• Programme also targets youth jobs and women’s economic empowerment

Togolese authorities on Thursday launched a nationwide cash transfer programme in Lomé to support more than 700,000 vulnerable households. The initiative is part of a broader government-led social protection framework aimed at easing persistent economic pressures, including income insecurity and declining purchasing power among low-income families.

The launch ceremony was held at the Kotokoli-Zongo sports complex in the Agoè-Nyivé 4 district on the outskirts of Lomé and was attended by senior political, administrative and traditional officials.

With an initial budget of 3.5 billion CFA francs ($6.25 million), the programme was officially opened by Presidency Secretary-General Sandra Ablamba Johnson, acting on behalf of President Faure Gnassingbé.

The programme provides an unconditional cash transfer of 25,000 CFA francs per household. Authorities said the funds are intended to meet immediate basic needs while also supporting local economic activity.

Payments will be made through secure digital platforms, using mobile money services Mixx by Yas and Flooz, to ensure traceability and timely access.

The scheme has three main pillars: direct cash support for vulnerable households, job creation initiatives targeting at-risk youth, and measures to promote the economic empowerment of women. “This programme is designed to strengthen household resilience, support employment and promote economic inclusion,” Johnson said.

Targeting and partners

Beneficiaries are selected using a Proxy Means Test, an internationally recognised targeting method. The process was carried out jointly by the National Institute of Statistics and Economic and Demographic Studies and the National Agency for Support to Grassroots Development, based on indicators combining income levels and non-monetary measures of poverty.

“This methodology ensures transparent and fair targeting,” a government official said.

ANADEB Director General Katanga Mazalo said the programme focuses on objectively identifying households most in need, while integrating employment and empowerment components seen as central to the country’s social policy.

The initiative is backed by several development partners, including the World Bank, the United Nations system, the French Development Agency and the African Development Bank. It builds on earlier programmes that have supported more than 142,000 people since 2024.

Ayi Renaud Dossavi