Togo

For local and municipal elections in 117 localities, polls opened on 17 July at the nation’s police stations; after the violent protests over the last month, security forces were deployed to protect citizens on the way to the vote, but turnout was low

80 leaders of Togolese companies from various sectors like agro-industry, services, IT took part in an AI training session in Lomé organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry to help executives adapt to rapid technological change

Security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters demanding leader Gnassingbe resignation: civil society groups and social media influencers had called for protests over changes to Togo’s constitution that could keep him in power indefinitely

The Committee to Protect Journalists called on authorities in Togo to withdraw a 90-days broadcasting ban on TV France 24 and Radio France International - belonging to Monde media group - due to 'repeated failures' in accuracy, impartiality, rigor

Leader Faure Gnassingbe has been given the new role of President of the Council of Ministers which has no fixed term limit, parliament said - a move the opposition called a constitutional coup that could extend his rule for life

To better prevent and control avian and swine flu outbreaks in Togo, a two phases training with animal health experts started in Kpalimé: a four-week theoretical course and a three-month field internship with mentors

S&P Global Ratings raised Togo’s sovereign credit rating from 'B' to 'B+', citing steady economic growth and stronger fiscal management; The outlook of the country, one of West Africa’s fastest-growing economies, remains stable

Judicial investigations are now compulsory for commercial cases brought to court after a law was adopted in this framework earlier this year; The procedure, which used to only concern criminal cases, was extended to commercial disputes

A new rule for importers of fish, poultry meat and related products, into force from 20 February, requires importers to purchase at least 10% of the required quantity from local suppliers before being allowed to import, a move to boost local production