Togo revitalizes archives in Lomé for justice and collective memory

As public administrations worldwide accelerate their digital transition, Togo is making a concerted effort to restore its national archives to a central role. In Lomé, experts and authorities recently convened for International Archives Day to initiate a profound discussion on the vital function of these records in safeguarding rights, preserving collective memory, and enhancing public governance.

Archives are more than just historical heritage; they also serve as a powerful catalyst for transparency, justice, and administrative efficiency. These critical aspects formed the core of a day-long reflection session held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Direction of the National Library and Archives (DBAN). The event’s theme was apt: “Archives for Justice: Rights, Memory, and Futures.”

Organized in partnership with the Togolese Association of Librarians, Archivists, and Documentalists (ATBAD), this gathering marked the annual celebration of International Archives Day. Its primary aim was to highlight how robust archival services contribute significantly to protecting the nation’s historical memory, upholding citizens’ rights, and strengthening transparency within the public administration.

Archives: a cornerstone of modern governance

The proceedings were officially opened by Professor Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. In his address, he underscored that archives form an essential pillar in the ongoing modernization of the state and the continuous improvement of public services.

According to Professor Tchangbedji, efficient document management not only preserves the administrative and historical heritage but also facilitates access to crucial information, thereby bolstering trust between governmental institutions and the citizenry.

The Minister also took the opportunity to commend the sustained efforts of the President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, in advancing the digital transformation of the administration, particularly through the development of e-governance, which he presented as a vital tool for bringing public services closer to their users.

Anticipated recommendations to bolster archive services

Beyond the official opening remarks, the gathering featured several thematic presentations, followed by engaging debates that brought together archives professionals, librarians, documentalists, and representatives from various public administrations.

Discussions delved into the complex challenges associated with document conservation, their digitization, ensuring broad accessibility, and their fundamental role in safeguarding rights and ensuring the proper administration of justice.

Concluding the sessions, participants unanimously reaffirmed the strategic significance of archives in constructing national memory. They expressed a strong desire that the recommendations formulated would lead to a lasting enhancement of Togo’s archival service performance, particularly within the context of the accelerating digital transition across the administration.