Authorities and civil society actors in Togo are stepping up efforts to regulate nonprofit organizations (NPOs), focusing on FATF Recommendation 8, which seeks to prevent the misuse of NGOs for illicit purposes while safeguarding legitimate activities. The move comes as the country strengthens its framework against money laundering and terrorist financing.
A two-day roundtable organized by WANEP-Togo (West Africa Network for Peacebuilding) opened on Thursday, bringing together government officials, financial sector representatives and civil society groups to address the issue.
“It is essential to work together to prevent the misuse of NPOs and protect the integrity of financial systems,” said Seyram Adiakpo, WANEP-Togo coordinator.
The meeting forms part of a broader government reform agenda. In early March, a new law on money laundering and terrorist financing was adopted, tightening due diligence requirements and monitoring mechanisms.
For Togolese authorities, the challenge is to balance oversight with maintaining an enabling environment for NGOs. “The implementation of Recommendation 8 requires a balanced approach,” said Akou Mawussé Adetou-Afidenyigba of the finance ministry.
In Togo, NGOs play a key role in social cohesion and the provision of basic services, particularly amid low financial inclusion and rising risks. Strengthening their regulatory framework is seen as a way to secure the financial system and reinforce economic governance.
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