Togo is taking further steps to strengthen its legal framework for chemical and explosive safety. A draft law adopted by the Council of Ministers seeks to amend the legal framework established in 2023 on chemical weapons. The reform aims to tighten controls on explosives and other substances that could threaten national security or the environment.
Against this backdrop, the reform comes as regional security concerns continue to grow. Criminal armed groups operating across the sub-region are increasingly using improvised explosive devices, turning everyday materials into weapons of war. In response, Togo wants to close potential gaps in the control chain and prevent dangerous materials from being diverted.
More specifically, the draft law provides for stricter controls over the import, export and movement of the substances concerned. The objective is to prevent their diversion and use for purposes that could threaten national security. The strengthened controls will cover a broad range of materials, including civilian explosives, military chemical agents and products that could be used to manufacture improvised explosive devices or create environmental risks.
In addition, the reform introduces an important institutional change. The Ministry of National Defence will now work alongside the National Authority for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, known as ANIAC-Togo, in authorization and monitoring procedures. This closer cooperation between the relevant institutions is intended to address weaknesses that criminal networks could exploit.
Meanwhile, the new framework builds on the law adopted in February 2023. That legislation already prohibited the development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons in Togo. It also strengthened the role of ANIAC-Togo. The new reform extends this approach by broadening the range of monitored substances and improving traceability mechanisms.
Furthermore, the government presents the initiative as a preventive measure. The new framework is expected to strengthen national systems for controlling, tracking and monitoring dangerous substances. It should also improve coordination between the institutions responsible for their supervision.
Ultimately, the bill is expected to move into the legislative process soon. Through this reform, Togo is reaffirming its commitment to protecting its population and environment from evolving security threats. It is also reinforcing its international commitments to preventing the proliferation and misuse of dangerous substances.
