As government bodies worldwide accelerate their digital shift, Togo is steadfastly reasserting the central importance of its national archives. In Lomé, during the recent International Archives Day, a gathering of experts and public officials embarked on a crucial dialogue concerning the pivotal role archives play in upholding rights, safeguarding collective memory, and enhancing public sector governance.
Beyond their value as mere historical repositories, archives stand as a fundamental pillar for transparency, justice, and administrative effectiveness. These critical themes formed the core of a dedicated day of deliberation held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Directorate of the National Library and Archives (DBAN). The event was aptly themed: « Archives for justice: rights, memory, and futures ».
Organized collaboratively with the Togolese Association of Librarians, Archivists, and Documentalists (ATBAD), this significant meeting was a key part of the International Archives Day celebrations. Its primary objective was to highlight the profound contributions of archival services to preserving the nation’s historical record, protecting citizen rights, and fostering greater transparency across public administration.
archives: a cornerstone of modern governance in Togo
The proceedings commenced with an opening address by Professor Gado Tchangbedji, the Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. During his remarks, he underscored that archives represent an indispensable component in the state’s modernization efforts and in the continuous improvement of public services across Togo.
According to Minister Tchangbedji, a robust and efficient system of document management not only ensures the preservation of the nation’s administrative and historical heritage but also significantly improves access to vital information, thereby strengthening trust between governmental institutions and the citizenry.
The Minister also took the opportunity to commend the strategic initiatives led by President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. These efforts are geared towards the comprehensive digital transformation of the administration, particularly through the development of e-governance platforms, which are seen as crucial tools for bridging the gap between the administration and its users.
anticipating recommendations to strengthen archival services
Beyond the formal addresses, the gathering featured a series of thematic presentations, sparking lively debates among archival professionals, librarians, documentalists, and representatives from various public administrations.
Discussions delved into the multifaceted challenges associated with document preservation, digitization processes, ensuring accessibility, and the crucial role archives play in protecting fundamental rights and fostering sound judicial administration.
Concluding the intensive sessions, participants unanimously reaffirmed the strategic significance of archives in shaping the national memory of Togo. They collectively expressed a strong desire that the recommendations put forth would lead to a sustained enhancement of archival services throughout the nation, particularly as the administration accelerates its journey towards comprehensive digital transformation.
