Pray for Togo

The nation of Togo is named after the Ewe word for lake. Located on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, Togo borders Benin, Ghana, and Burkina Faso. It was colonized by both Germany and France before gaining its independence in 1960. Since becoming an independent country, Togo has had many years of authoritarian government control and political instability. In 2005, following the death of the president, the military appointed his son as the next leader. This led to violent protests, and about 40,000 people fled the country. Today, the nation is a semi-authoritarian presidential republic where the military remains influential. Many Togolese speak French, but indigenous languages are more common.

Many diseases plague the Togolese people. Though HIV/AIDS cases have declined over the years, malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death, especially in children. Division and inequality issues persist as well. Historical and political tensions continue to divide the north and south, and women face persistent discrimination in the workforce and society. Over 40 percent of the population lives below the national poverty line, contributing to child trafficking, prostitution, and exploitation.

About forty percent of the population is Christian, with Roman Catholicism as the largest denomination. Islam is also widely practiced, particularly in the north. Because of its prevalence, churches in northern regions often face harassment, and believers may experience rejection from their families. Within the Church, unity and syncretism remain significant challenges for many Christians. Ancestor worship and other traditional African practices have been incorporated into Christian services. The blending of Ewe and Kabiyé-influenced beliefs with Christianity can hinder expressions of faith. Many Togolese also practice Voodoo and other forms of spiritism. Pray that the Church will grow in unity, be strengthened in faith, and be freed from influences rooted in traditional beliefs.