As government bodies worldwide accelerate their digital transformation, Togo is making a concerted effort to re-establish the pivotal role of its national archives. In Lomé, a recent gathering of experts and national authorities convened for International Archives Day, initiating crucial discussions on how these historical records can protect rights, preserve collective memory, and foster improved public governance.
Archives transcend their traditional role as mere historical artifacts; they are vital instruments for promoting transparency, ensuring justice, and enhancing administrative efficiency. These critical aspects formed the core of a reflective day held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Direction de la Bibliothèque et des Archives nationales (DBAN). The event was themed: « Archives for Justice: Rights, Memory, and Futures ».
This significant meeting, organized in collaboration with the Association togolaise des bibliothécaires, archivistes et documentalistes (ATBAD), was part of the global observance of International Archives Day. Its primary objective was to underscore the invaluable contribution of archival services to safeguarding Togo’s national memory, upholding citizens’ rights, and strengthening transparency across public administration.
Archives: a cornerstone for modern governance in Togo
The proceedings commenced with opening remarks from Professor Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. In his address, Professor Tchangbedji underscored the indispensable role of archives in the state’s modernization drive and the ongoing efforts to enhance public services.
He articulated that robust document management not only secures the nation’s administrative and historical heritage but also significantly improves access to information, thereby fostering greater trust between governmental institutions and the citizenry.
The Minister further lauded the initiatives spearheaded by the President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, particularly his commitment to the digital transformation of public administration. He highlighted the development of e-governance as a crucial tool for bridging the gap between the administration and its users.
Anticipated recommendations to bolster archival services
Beyond the formal speeches, the event featured a series of thematic presentations and engaging debates. These discussions brought together a diverse group of professionals, including archivists, librarians, documentalists, and representatives from various public administrations.
The dialogues centered on critical challenges related to document preservation, digitization processes, ensuring accessibility, and the fundamental role archives play in safeguarding rights and facilitating the effective administration of justice.
Upon the conclusion of the sessions, participants unanimously reaffirmed the strategic significance of archives in constructing national memory. They expressed a strong desire for the recommendations generated to lead to a sustained enhancement of archival services across Togo, particularly within the rapidly accelerating context of the administration’s digital transition.
