In order to improve the quality and relevance of vocational training, Germany has worked with Togo's associations and chambers of skilled trades to set up a dual (school-based and industry-based) vocational training system. At present, there are six cities in Togo where people can choose between five different skilled trades for which they can train in a combination of vocational school classes and in-house training in businesses. The BMZ is assisting policymakers and private-sector players in developing further training programmes in line with labour market needs and in providing them with sufficient and transparent funding.

Germany has helped Togo to renovate and expand seven vocational training centres and to equip them with modern tools and machinery. Germany has also provided funding for teacher training. In the new Adetikopé industrial zone near the capital, Lomé, support is being provided to a training centre that focuses on textile production and on the processing of agricultural goods.

Support for business start-ups

Training is being provided to young people who wish to start their own business or improve the management of a business they already have. There is a special focus on the needs of young women and men who have little or no schooling, and on persons with physical disabilities. Togo's job placement agency is being assisted in improving its activities on careers information and guidance.

The share of the manufacturing sector and the service sector in Togo's economy is still very low. There is much room for improvement here. Small and micro enterprises in particular could increase their level of value addition considerably, thus creating jobs and increasing their incomes. Through its development cooperation, Germany is helping such businesses to get access to advisory services and financing.

In order to increase foreign direct investment in Togo, Germany is working with the government to improve the business environment and reduce obstacles to investment. Within the framework of Financial Cooperation, support will also be provided in future to insurance programmes that protect investors against political and commercial risks.

Many enterprises in Togo are not able to fully use their potential for development because they have no access to (international) markets and because the government is not doing enough to promote trade. As part of the reform partnership between Togo and Germany, support will be provided to meaningful reforms for the elimination of trade barriers, for example the introduction of certification procedures and quality standards, the development of the transport infrastructure, and the establishment of an export and investment promotion agency.