Togo/ Sarakawa, 50 years later: The commemoration of economic independence
On January 24, 2024, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé presided over the commemorative ceremony of the tragic plane crash that occurred in Sarakawa fifty years ago. This date remains etched in the collective memory of Togo as a founding moment for the country’s economic independence.
The solemnity of the day, marked by the laying of wreaths, the playing of the Last Post, and the replay of radio archives, recalled the circumstances that made Sarakawa a symbol of patriotic sacrifice and the victory that strengthened social cohesion.
In the aftermath of Togo’s attainment of international sovereignty, the country’s economy was largely dominated by the exploitation of phosphates, controlled by a foreign-owned company, with only 1% of shares granted to the Togolese government. Faced with this situation, President Eyadéma initiated negotiations in the 1970s to increase the country’s stake in the mining company. Despite successive increases, the operators’ refusal led the government to denounce the pre-colonial agreements.
Togo’s determination to take control of its economic destiny was sealed when President Eyadéma announced in 1974 that the country would now have a majority stake in phosphate mining. Two weeks later, an aviation attack struck the president during his journey from Lomé to Pya. Although injured, Eyadéma reaffirmed his commitment to the struggle for economic independence in an address to the people.
Five decades after the Sarakawa attack, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé continues this legacy by implementing a government roadmap for the horizon of 2025. This development vision aims to build a peaceful, modern country with inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
The commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary brought together representatives from the Republic’s institutions, the government, elected officials, and authorities, demonstrating the collective recognition of this historic and patriotic event that continues to inspire current generations to work for the well-being and international prominence of Togo.
