Togo Independence Day 2023: Togo Independence Day is celebrated annually on April 27. This day commemorates Togo’s 1960 independence from the French overseas colonial empire. Togo derives its name from the language of its indigenous tribes, which means “a place where lagoons lie.” Today marks another year of independence day celebrations. Togo, also known as the Togolese Republic or République togolaise, is a country in West Africa that shares borders with Ghana, Benin, and Burkina Faso.
TOGO’s HISTORY OF INDEPENDENCE DAY
In the 16th century, the coastal region surrounding modern-day Togo became a significant trading hub for Europeans seeking slaves, earning the region the moniker “The Slave Coast.” In the late 1800s, Germany took possession of “Togoland” and established it as a prosperous colony. Despite being one of Germany’s minor overseas assets, it was one of its most valuable.
German soldiers were swiftly annihilated following the allied assault on the small colony on August 26, 1914, compelling the colony to surrender. In 1916, Togoland was divided between the victors, resulting in the formation of the new colonies of British Togoland and French Togoland. During World War I, Britain and France conquered Togoland, establishing the Anglo-French condominium. On December 7, 1916, the condominium collapsed and Togo was divided into British and French zones. On July 20, 1922, the League of Nations designated Great Britain to govern the western portion of Togo and France to administer the eastern portion. In 1945, the country was awarded the authority to send three representatives to the French parliament.
These mandates were renamed U.N. Trust Territories after World War II. In 1957, the citizens of British Togoland decided to join the Gold Coast as a constituent of the newly formed Ghana. French Togoland was granted autonomy within the French Union in 1959, but France retained control over its defence, foreign relations, and economy. The Togolese Republic was established April 27, 1960. In 1961, Sylvanus Olympio was elected president for the first time, obtaining 100 percent of the vote in opposition-boycotted elections.
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HOW TO CELEBRATE TOGO’S DAY OF INDEPENDENCE (TOGO)
Participate in Independence Day activities in Togo
Participate in the flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, and cultural events conducted in Lome and throughout Togo to commemorate the country’s independence if you are in Togo. These preparations for Independence Day commence one month in advance.
Prepare a Togolese cuisine
What better way to participate in the festivity than by sharing a Togolese meal with loved ones? Consult online recipes and prepare a feast for the occasion.
Share on social media.
You need not be in Togo to participate in the celebration. Google the emblem of Togo and share it on social media with hashtags such as #TogoIndependence and #HappyIndependenceDayTogo.
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Five fascinating facts about Togo
Brief history
Togo’s history is scant compared to that of many other African nations.
Monument de L’Indépendance
On April 27, 1960, the Monument de L’Independance was erected to commemorate Togo’s independence from France.
Mont Agou
At 986 metres (3,235 feet) above sea level, Mont Agou is the tallest mountain in Togo.
French-speaking nation
Togo’s official language is French.
123rd largest nation
With a land area of 56,785 square kilometres, it is the 123rd largest country in the globe.
WHY TOGO DAY OF INDEPENDENCE IS IMPORTANT
Togo’s Independence Day is a celebration of the country’s brief history and its early leaders. In 1963, a rebellion resulted in the death of the country’s first president, Sylvanus Olympio. On this day, a memorial is held in his honour.
There is a female mayor.
Togo boasts one of the world’s first female mayors. Marie Madoé Sivomey, the first female mayor of Togo, served as mayor of Lomé from 1967 to 1974.
This is to honour the Togolese people.
This day is also a celebration of the Togolese people. They are extremely hospitable despite their lack of infrastructure, welcoming tourists with open arms and offering anything they have, from a glass of water to a handwritten note.
TOGO INDEPENDENCE DAY (TOGO) DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 27 | Thursday |
| 2024 | April 27 | Saturday |
| 2025 | April 27 | Sunday |
| 2026 | April 27 | Monday |
| 2027 | April 27 | Tuesday |
