National showcase of OHADA’s Genies en Herbe competition 2026 in Lomé
The Auditorium of the University of Lomé buzzed with intellectual energy on May 30, 2026, as the national finale of the 17th edition of the International Genies en Herbe OHADA competition unfolded. This prestigious event, co-organized by the National OHADA Genies en Herbe Coordination in Togo and the International Association of Law Students (Togolese branch), followed preliminary rounds held in Lomé and Kara on April 25, 2026.
The ceremony kicked off with opening remarks from Me Pirénam BLANDE, former President of AIEJ-TOGO, followed by speeches from key figures including the national coordinator Me Messifa Komlan KONALI, a Magistrate, and representatives from the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) and the competition’s project manager, Me Têko Seyram Godwin AMENYINU, a Doctor in Private Law and Attorney at Law.
Intellectual challenges and critical thinking
Ten finalists from the University of Lomé, University of Kara, and the Higher Institute of Law and Interpretation (ISDI) faced a rigorous examination comprising multiple-choice questions, African integration challenges, identification tasks, and a compelling 10-minute legal debate. The debate topic: «Can tax law be integrated into OHADA’s material competence field?» presented a complex challenge for the young jurists.
Expert jury and high-stakes evaluation
The jury, led by Pr Edem AVEGNON, a Private Law Agrégé and Tax Specialist from the University of Lomé, included distinguished professionals such as Me Sidick K. AKATA, a finalist in the 2025 Monferrier Dorval CIB Oratory Competition, and Dr Godwin Disseyi PALOUKI, a Tax Inspector and 2018 CIGHO best thesis awardee. Their expertise ensured a fair and challenging evaluation process.
Triumph of talent: The top performers
After intense competition, the top three emerged:
1st place: Miss Atsoupi Ama NEGLO, Bachelor’s in Public Law from the University of Kara
2nd place: Mr. Francis Koffi FIA, Bachelor’s in Private Law from the University of Lomé
3rd place: Mr. Edoé F. Ulrich MENSAH-GAFAN AKOVI, Master’s student in Digital Law & Data Protection at ISDI
These winners will represent Togo at the international finale scheduled for September 12-19, 2026, in Lomé, where they will receive specialized coaching from former CIGHO laureates Koamivi AGBAH, Obed Adjévi NEGLOKPE, and Bilal BABA DARO.
Gratitude and partnerships
The organizers extended heartfelt thanks to financial and institutional partners, including the Togolese Revenue Office, the University of Lomé, UNIDA, local courts, and several law firms for their invaluable support. Special recognition went to the jury for their dedication and to the AIEJ-TOGO team, led by President Marie-Claire Egnonam AVLA, for their relentless efforts in ensuring the success of the national selections.
The event concluded with prize presentations, celebratory photographs, and a networking session, marking a memorable chapter in Togo’s academic and legal landscape.
