Starting May 15, 2025, Togolese ministers will be personally responsible for paying their domestic water and electricity bills, according to a circular issued by Minister of Economy and Finance, Essowè Georges Barcola.
This reform, ending the practice of the Public Treasury covering these expenses, is part of a broader effort to rationalize public spending and improve governance.
Read more: ICRC Escorts Congolese Troops from Goma to Kinshasa.
The measure is intended to demonstrate a commitment to exemplary behavior, fairness, and fiscal responsibility in the management of state finances. The circular states that it “aims to strengthen fairness and accountability in the management of public resources, in line with the principles of good governance, state sobriety, and the exemplary behavior expected of senior public officials.”
The State Treasurer has instructed the Togo Electricity Company (CEET) and Togolaise des Eaux (TdE) to facilitate this administrative and logistical transition.
This change comes shortly after a recent increase in electricity prices in Togo, amidst efforts to improve the financial stability of CEET, which has faced ongoing challenges. The price increase has sparked public debates.
