Togo is emerging as a mid-level adopter of generative artificial intelligence technologies in Africa, with usage rates continuing to climb as mobile internet access and digital engagement expand across the country.
According to the “Global AI Diffusion Q1 2026 Trends and Insights” report published by Microsoft, about 10.1 percent of Togo’s population aged between 15 and 64 used a generative AI tool during the first quarter of 2026.
The figure marks a steady increase from 9.3 percent recorded in the second half of 2025 and 8.7 percent in the first half of the same year, indicating growing familiarity with AI-powered digital tools among users.
The report tracks the use of generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and Copilot using aggregated and anonymised telemetry data adjusted for internet penetration, connected devices and population size.
Microsoft said adoption in Togo has been supported by rising smartphone ownership, expanding mobile internet coverage and increasing interest among young people in digital tools for writing assistance, coding, research and content creation.
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The country now ranks within Africa’s middle tier of generative AI adopters, alongside countries such as Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Mali and Niger.
South Africa recorded the highest adoption rate on the continent at 23.1 percent, followed by Namibia at 15.1 percent, while Gabon and Libya each recorded usage rates of 15 percent.
Globally, the United Arab Emirates remained the largest generative AI market with an adoption rate of 70.1 percent, ahead of Singapore at 63.4 percent and Norway at 48.6 percent.
The report also highlighted a widening digital gap between advanced economies and developing countries.
Average generative AI adoption in developed economies stood at 27.5 percent, compared with 15.4 percent across countries in the Global South.
Analysts say Africa’s adoption of generative AI technologies continues to be constrained by structural challenges including limited electricity access, inconsistent internet connectivity and shortages in advanced digital skills.
Despite those obstacles, interest in AI applications is expanding rapidly across the continent, particularly among younger users and technology entrepreneurs seeking productivity tools and digital business opportunities.
For Togo, the latest figures reflect broader efforts to expand digital inclusion and technology adoption as authorities seek to strengthen the country’s digital economy and improve access to online services.
Technology observers say sustained growth in AI usage will depend not only on internet access but also on investment in education, digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks capable of supporting innovation while addressing concerns around cybersecurity, misinformation and workforce disruption.
The report suggests that while Togo remains far behind leading global AI markets, the country is gradually positioning itself within Africa’s evolving digital transformation landscape.
