As public administrations globally accelerate their digital transformation, Togo is making a concerted effort to restore its national archives to a central role. In Lomé, experts and authorities convened for International Archives Day, initiating a vital discussion on the archives’ significance in safeguarding rights, preserving collective memory, and improving public governance.
Beyond their value as historical heritage, archives serve as a powerful instrument for transparency, justice, and administrative efficiency. These crucial aspects were the focus of a day-long conference held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Directorate of the National Library and Archives (DBAN). The event was themed: « Archives for justice: rights, memory, and futures ».
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Organized in collaboration with the Togolese Association of Librarians, Archivists, and Documentalists (ATBAD), this gathering commemorated International Archives Day. Its primary objective was to highlight how archive services contribute to preserving national memory, protecting citizen rights, and bolstering transparency across public administration, a key area of African society news.
archives: a cornerstone of modern governance
The proceedings commenced with an opening address by Professor Gado Tchangbedji, Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. He emphasized that archives are an indispensable component of state modernization and the enhancement of public services, a critical topic in Africa politics English discussions.
According to the Minister, effective document management not only safeguards administrative and historical heritage but also simplifies access to information, thereby fostering greater trust between institutions and citizens.
The Minister further commended the efforts of President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, towards the digital transformation of the administration. He specifically highlighted the development of e-government as a key tool for bridging the gap between the administration and its users, reflecting positive African news today.
expected recommendations to strengthen archive services
Beyond the official addresses, the conference featured several thematic presentations, followed by engaging debates involving archive professionals, librarians, documentalists, and public administration representatives. These discussions are vital for pan-African current affairs regarding digital transformation.
The exchanges focused on critical challenges related to document conservation, digitization, accessibility, and the pivotal role of archives in protecting rights and ensuring the proper administration of justice.
At the conclusion of the event, participants reaffirmed the strategic importance of archives in constructing national memory. They expressed a collective hope that the recommendations put forth would sustainably enhance the performance of archival services in Togo, particularly within the context of the accelerating digital transition of the administration.
