Togo is taking a decisive step toward modernising its agricultural sector. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Togo (CCI-Togo) has announced plans to establish an Agri-Tech complex dedicated to smart agriculture training by 2026. The disclosure appeared in the December 2025 edition of its quarterly publication, Entrepreneurs Mag, signalling a clear strategic priority for the year ahead.
The proposed Agri-Tech complex will rise in Agbélouvé, located in the Maritime region. From the outset, CCI-Togo has positioned the centre as one of its flagship projects for 2026. More importantly, the initiative reflects a broader national ambition to strengthen food security, boost productivity, and attract youth into agriculture through innovation.
Agriculture remains a backbone of Togo’s economy. It employs a significant portion of the population and contributes meaningfully to national output. However, the sector continues to face structural challenges. These challenges include low productivity, climate vulnerability, limited access to technology, and weak value-chain integration. Consequently, the planned Agri-Tech complex seeks to respond directly to these gaps.
According to CCI-Togo, the centre will serve a dual purpose. First, it will operate as a training hub for smart and climate-resilient agriculture. Second, it will function as an innovation laboratory supporting experimentation, research, and technology adoption. This combined approach aims to bridge the divide between theory and practice.
Through structured training programmes, farmers, agripreneurs, and students will gain exposure to modern farming techniques. These techniques are expected to include precision agriculture, digital farm management tools, improved irrigation systems, and data-driven decision-making. As a result, participants can improve yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.
Beyond training, the innovation laboratory component will play a critical role. It will provide space for testing new agricultural technologies adapted to local conditions. Moreover, it will encourage collaboration between farmers, startups, researchers, and technology providers. This collaborative model strengthens learning while accelerating practical solutions.
Location also matters. Agbélouvé sits within a strategic agricultural zone with strong links to markets and logistics corridors. Therefore, situating the Agri-Tech complex there enhances accessibility and regional impact. It also supports decentralised development beyond the capital.
In addition, the project aligns with regional and continental priorities. Across Africa, smart agriculture has gained renewed attention. Governments and institutions increasingly recognise its role in tackling climate change, youth unemployment, and food insecurity. Consequently, CCI-Togo’s initiative places the country within this forward-looking continental movement.
The Agri-Tech complex also reflects a shift in how agriculture is perceived. Rather than viewing farming as subsistence-based, the project promotes agriculture as a business powered by innovation. This narrative is essential for attracting young people, who often see agriculture as outdated or unprofitable.
Furthermore, the centre is expected to strengthen public-private collaboration. By working with technology firms, financial institutions, and development partners, CCI-Togo can expand the project’s reach and sustainability. Such partnerships also help mobilise funding, expertise, and market access.
From a policy perspective, the initiative complements national strategies on economic diversification and private-sector development. Training skilled agripreneurs supports value addition, export potential, and rural income growth. Over time, this can reduce import dependence and strengthen national resilience.
Importantly, CCI-Togo’s announcement sends a strong signal to investors and development partners. It demonstrates institutional leadership and long-term planning. It also highlights the private sector’s role in driving innovation-led growth.
As 2026 approaches, expectations around implementation will grow. Stakeholders will look for clear timelines, curriculum design, and partnership frameworks. Nevertheless, the vision itself marks a significant milestone.
In conclusion, CCI-Togo’s planned Agri-Tech complex represents more than a training centre. It embodies a strategic investment in the future of agriculture, innovation, and human capital. Through smart agriculture, collaboration, and technology, Togo is positioning itself to build a more productive, resilient, and competitive agricultural sector.
