Togo Enhances Tourism Data Collection with New Satellite Account Initiative

Togo's Tourism Ministry is making strides to establish a Tourism Satellite Account (TSA), a system designed to provide more accurate and comparable data regarding the tourism sector's economic contributions. This initiative was reignited from September 21 to 27, 2026, in Davié, located 20 kilometers north of Lomé.

Objectives of the TSA

The TSA aims to create a robust institutional, regulatory, and statistical framework that will enable comprehensive measurement of tourism activities in Togo. The initiative, which began in 2019, focuses on assessing tourism's impact across various industries and businesses. By gathering detailed information on visitor flows and economic effects, Togo seeks to enhance its understanding of the tourism sector.

Recent Developments

During the recent meetings, participants reviewed technical documents and worked on harmonizing statistical definitions. This process is crucial for defining the "usual environment" of tourist travel, ensuring that the data collected aligns with international standards while being tailored to Togo's specific conditions. The discussions also addressed the institutional framework for the TSA, clarifying the roles of various participating entities and establishing procedures for data production and sharing.

Next Steps

The draft documentation prepared during these sessions will be further evaluated at a national workshop, where it will undergo approval. The successful implementation of the TSA is expected to significantly bolster Togo's tourism information system, allowing for better planning and evaluation of public policies related to tourism.

This initiative represents an important step for Togo as it seeks to enhance its tourism sector and better understand its economic contributions, ultimately aiming to attract more visitors and boost the national economy.