Togo's president vows more proactive, decisive actions in 2017

Togo's president on Friday evening said 2017 will be a year of "more proactive and decisive public action" in the economic, social and political domains.

While addressing the nation as part of a New Year's celebration, Togo's President Faure Gnassingbe said that he and the entire government were committed to successfully achieving major projects that matter to the nation.

He wished his fellow citizens health, profound peace and prosperity, and saluted the bravery of the Togolese armed forces in taking part in peacekeeping missions across the African continent.

"In 2017, it is also together and united that I wish to commit us to sustain, consolidate and amplify the momentum of structural reforms and socio-economic progress," said Gnassingbe.

"Your legitimate expectations, well understood, are related to the ... economic progress of our country in the everyday life of every citizen," he said.

Gnassingbe added the government will resolutely continue to implement various initiatives.

"National wealth creation and sharing will remain the basis of the action of the government in the spirit of equity," he said.

He also highlighted the concerns and challenges of the country in the new year, especially those in the health and education sectors.

In the health sector, he said strengthening the health care system remains a high priority for the country, and he promised to improve public access to quality health services.

"Many challenges remain in the key sector of education so as to provide our young learners with a better performing system," he said.

Also, Gnassingbe said that solving the shortage of teachers will be a priority.

"We have the means and the qualities. I am confident that, together, we will succeed," he said. Endi