Mr. President of the High Council of Togolese Abroad

Ladies and gentlemen, delegates from the High Council of Togolese Abroad in different countries,
Ladies and gentlemen, leaders of associations of Togolese living abroad,
Dear compatriots from the diaspora,
Ladies and gentlemen

Three years ago, on July 2, 2019, we launched the electoral process that led to the selection of country delegates for the High Council of Togolese Abroad (HCTE), marking the realization of the inclusive policy of the Head of State, H.E. Faure Essozimna GNASSINGBE, aimed at addressing the aspirations of all Togolese wherever they may be.

With a retrospective look, I am pleased today to underline that while the endeavor seemed daunting as few compatriots believed in it, this first term that is coming to an end has convinced us that this initiative genuinely meets a real need, that of uniting all the dynamic forces of the diaspora into a governing body which is now the interface between the Government and Togolese living abroad. The HCTE is now an integral part of Togo’s institutional framework. It is worth recalling that this was one of the recommendations made by the Togolese diaspora itself during the 2014 meetings.

As a consultative, non-partisan, non-discriminatory, and non-profit associative body, the HCTE was conceived as the primary platform for dialogue between the Togolese diaspora and the Government on all matters of common interest. It is responsible for monitoring and coordinating the development actions of the Togolese diaspora.

I would like to congratulate my dear compatriots who, as pioneers, agreed to participate in this first term. It was already known that the journey would not be easy for them. But little did we imagine that just a few months after their installation, the Covid-19 health crisis would put a brake on the implementation of the country delegates’ action plans. Despite this challenging context, the results are more than satisfactory.

Individually, some delegates have distinguished themselves through their availability and their ability to unite Togolese living abroad around common projects, and above all, to promptly intervene in situations of distress among compatriots, sometimes complementing or assisting the actions of diplomatic and consular missions. HCTE delegates have also been true promoters of Togolese identity and culture and defenders of our country’s brand image by initiating or supporting various events. I would also like to commend the first President of the HCTE, Mr. ATITSO Kodzovi, whose commitment and availability greatly contributed to the image of this new institution.

Collectively, the role of the HCTE has been essential, as seen in the organization of successive waves of repatriation for compatriots stranded in their countries of residence due to border closures during the health crisis, as well as in the recent assistance provided to our compatriots who faced difficulties in Ukraine at the onset of the Russo-Ukrainian crisis. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of country delegates, especially those in Africa, during the Togolese diaspora registration campaign that has just concluded.

Dear compatriots from the diaspora,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Despite the encouraging results, we must acknowledge that there are still significant challenges ahead. Recognizing that no human endeavor is perfect, we, as an administration, have learned valuable lessons from this initial experience. Innovations have been introduced to enhance and improve the system’s effectiveness, taking into account the realities on the ground. The number of country delegates has been reduced from 77 to 48, with 22 for Africa, 5 for the Americas and the Caribbean, 7 for Asia-Oceania, and 14 for Europe. The aim is to have a more streamlined group to facilitate interactions and decision-making.

As with the first edition, the electoral process will take place entirely online, which is currently the only way to reach all Togolese living abroad, regardless of their location. An independent electoral commission composed of individuals of high moral integrity will oversee the process.

I make a solemn appeal to all compatriots who wish to freely run as candidates or participate as voters to mobilize and consult the website www.diasporatg.org, where all relevant information is posted.

I would like to emphasize that the position of HCTE country delegate is voluntary and unpaid, so your commitment will be a testament to your patriotism and your dedication to our motherland.

Long live the Togolese diaspora in service to the development of our country!

Long live Togo!

Thank you for your attention!