Sub Saharan Africa

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• General
 

Travel Summary

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6.  The WHO website at: www.who.int has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information.
  
  
• There is no formal British representation in Togo.  In case of an emergency you should contact the British High Commission in Accra, Ghana. There is an Honorary Consul in Togo, but he can only offer limited consular assistance.   See the Contact Details of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Since the previous Presidential elections in 2005, there has been a sustained period of relative calm in Togo.  Presidential elections are due to be held again in February 2010. Political rallies and demonstrations prior to and following this period may occur. You should aovid any large public gatherings (including political rallies and demonstrations) which may appear peaceful but could have the potential to turn violent. Outbreaks of civil unrest could occur at anytime.  In the past demonstrators have targeted expatriates.  You should monitor developments through the local media.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You need a visa to enter Togo.  Overstaying on your visa without proper authority is a serious matter and can lead to detention or refused permission to leave the country until a fine is paid.  See the Entry Requirements section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• The main type of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Togo in 2007 was dealing with hospitalisations.  Crime is also increasingly common in Lomé.  Local authorities have warned of a rise in violent robberies and car-jacking incidents and motorists have been warned to only stop for individuals in uniform, particularly after dark.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake.  See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance  for more details.