United Planet: Volunteer Abroad in Togo - 6 or 12 months

Togo, or the Togolese Republic, is shaped like a long sliver between the countries of Benin and Ghana in West Africa. Twice the size of Maryland, Togo is tropical and sub-Saharan, and is highly dependent on agriculture for its economy. French is the national language here, although many other local languages, along with indigenous beliefs, are present. Togo gained independence from France as recently as 1960 and is transitioning to democratic rule. Volunteers are guaranteed to see acres of cocoa, cotton and coffee, which generate nearly 40% of the nation’s export earnings. 65% of Togo’s people lead agrarian lifestyles, dependent on the land for their livelihood, and they are made up of 21 ethnic groups. Traditional Togolese music, food and dance are musts for volunteers in this relaxed, beautiful setting. United Planet is the US and Canadian partner of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in Togo, you will be hosted by Campagne des Hommes (CdH), ICYE’s partner organization here. Young volunteers started CdH in Togo as a way of learning from and contributing to this diverse people.