Religion in Togo is diverse, with Christianity being the most widely professed faith. A substantial number of the Togolese also practice traditional faiths and Islam.
A significant number of Christians and Muslims in Togo also incorporate elements of folk religion.[2][3]Togo is a secular state and the nation's constitution provides freedom of religion and worship.[4]
Overview
The 2014 General Population and Housing Census noted that 25% of the population was Roman Catholic, making it the primary branch of Christianity in Togo, while other denominations included Methodists, Lutherans, Assemblies of God, Seventh-day Adventists, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and Jehovah's Witnesses. Nichiren Buddhists, followers of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness, Baha’is and Hindus are among other religious groups in the country.[5]
Christians live mainly in the south of the country, while Muslims live predominately in the central and northern regions.
Freedom of Religion
In 2022, Freedom House rated Togo's religious freedom as 3 out of 4,[6] noting that religious freedom is constitutionally protected and generally respected in practice. Islam, Catholicism and Protestantism are recognised by the state; other groups must register as religious associations to receive similar benefits. The registration process has been subject to long delays with almost 900 applications pending at the beginning of 2021.
