Togo: Eviction ultimatum issued for National Road 1 expansion

The Mayor of Zio 1, Dr. Yawo Atatsi, has issued an ultimatum for occupants to vacate a 70-meter wide strip along National Road 1 (RN1) by July 27. This order follows a decree from October 2022 regarding road classifications and boundaries. The eviction targets temporary structures, including kiosks, containers, hangars, and terraces, to facilitate major road expansion works.

The project aims to transform RN1 into a dual-carriageway boulevard. Specific technical plans include a 14-meter wide roadway with street lighting for the Adéticopé-Davié-Lilicopé-Gamé section, 18-meter widths in municipal centers, and up to 32 meters between Agoè-Nyivé-Grand Pont and Togblécopé.

The expansion is expected to impact various private and public infrastructures, including homes and shops. The Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure will conduct a census of affected properties to evaluate and provide compensation to owners who present valid supporting documentation. The Tsévié Municipality warned that failure to vacate voluntarily by the deadline will result in forced eviction operations conducted in accordance with administrative procedures.