Next week, Lomé will welcome policymakers, financial experts, and development leaders from across West Africa for a pivotal regional workshop focused on improving local government budget management. Scheduled for November 3rd and 4th, the event seeks to strengthen access to essential services through smarter, more transparent, and inclusive fiscal practices.
The initiative is being driven by the Federation of Municipalities of Togo (FCT) and the Council of Local Authorities of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (CCT-UEMOA), with crucial financial backing from the German Development Cooperation (GIZ). Together, these partners are creating a platform where local authorities can exchange lessons, share innovations, and develop strategies to make municipal governance more accountable and efficient.
Across West Africa, cities and towns continue to expand rapidly. As a result, local governments now face growing demands for better infrastructure, clean water, education, and healthcare. However, they often struggle with limited budgets, weak financial oversight, and a lack of coordination between institutions. Through this workshop, leaders hope to turn these challenges into opportunities by fostering collaboration and innovation across borders.
During the two-day event, participants will engage in dynamic discussions, expert presentations, and case studies that highlight practical successes in municipal reform. For instance, they will explore how some cities have introduced participatory budgeting models, adopted digital accounting systems, and linked spending to measurable performance outcomes. These approaches not only improve efficiency but also build public confidence in local governance.
Furthermore, the sessions will emphasize the direct connection between sound budget management and improved quality of life. By promoting fiscal responsibility and encouraging citizen involvement in financial decisions, communities can achieve fairer outcomes and stronger local institutions. This inclusive approach ensures that public funds directly support the most pressing needs of the population.
Another major focus of the workshop will be the role of technology in reshaping financial governance. Digital tools, when properly implemented, can help municipalities monitor expenditures in real time, reduce corruption risks, and enhance transparency. Additionally, discussions will highlight how empowering women and youth in decision-making strengthens the social fabric and drives long-term sustainability.
The Federation of Municipalities of Togo (FCT) has been instrumental in uniting local councils under a shared reform agenda. Likewise, CCT-UEMOA continues to champion regional integration by promoting harmonized fiscal and governance standards across member states. With GIZ’s financial and technical support, this collaboration demonstrates growing international confidence in Africa’s capacity for effective decentralization and self-driven progress.
As Lomé prepares to host this influential meeting, it reinforces Togo’s leadership role in promoting accountable governance across the subregion. Ultimately, the workshop represents more than an exchange of ideas — it is a collective step toward building stronger, more resilient municipalities that can transform public finance into lasting social impact.
