Togolese Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Togo is a narrow country in West Africa, between Ghana and Benin, stretching from the Gulf of Guinea inland to the savannah. Its capital, Lome, is known for its markets. French is the official language, and Ewe and Kabye are widely spoken. Togolese people in Britain include students, professionals and families.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 6,034 people living in the city had been born in Central and Western African countries other than Ghana and Nigeria, a group that includes Togo.

Working for Birmingham

Togolese residents work in healthcare, education, business and hospitality, and many are multilingual, speaking French, English and local languages. Those skills are valued in interpreting, teaching and international trade, and Togolese students study at the city's universities.

The city's future rests on the same things as its past: skills, enterprise and people willing to put in the hours. Whether in a hospital, a classroom, a lecture theatre, a van full of tools or a shop on a busy high street, Togolese residents are helping to build that future, and to make Birmingham a stronger, fairer and more welcoming city.

Culture and community life

Fufu, made from yam, is a national favourite, served with rich soups, and Togolese markets are famous for their fabrics. Music and dance are part of every celebration, and Independence Day on 27 April is marked with gatherings and pride.

Birmingham's strength lies in its variety, and the Togolese community is a welcome part of it. As the city continues to grow and change, that contribution will remain part of the story of a place that has always looked forward.