Cities In Togo Research Articles

Generation of meteorological year for the assessment of photovoltaic systems performance in Togo, West Africa

In this paper, the Sandia method, based on the Finkelstein-Schafer (FS) statistical techniques was used to develop a Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) for five cities in Togo (Lomé, Atakpamé, Sokodé, Kara and Mango) with a view to assessing the performance of the 72-cell polycrystalline solar photovoltaic (PV) module in the study areas. Seven daily measurements of meteorological parameters (relative humidity, dew point temperature, minimum and maximum temperatures, mean temperature, wind velocity as well as global solar radiation intensity) obtained from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for 1987–2016 period were used. The TMY predictions were compared with the 30-year Long-Term (LT) average values of the dataset. Two statistical indicators, the Mean Percentage Error (MPE) and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), were adopted to evaluate the performance of the PV energy system. Results show close agreements between TMY and LT values for all the parameters considered. The TMY in most cases underestimates the LT mean and fluxes are relatively small. Although the PV energy simulations were found to be underestimated, the generated solar PV energy obtained with TMY compares fairly well with those obtained with LT data. The performance of the TMY data is found to vary over the country but considered ‘very good’ with MPE values ranging between 0.24% and 2.46% as well as RMSE ranging between 8.29 and 16.71 kWh. Slight but insignificant biases (positive in the southern cities of Togo but negative in the north) were found between the estimated PV energy with the TMY when higher weight for global solar radiation was used. This study has implications in building energy simulation for comparative energy efficiency studies.

EVOLUTION OF POLLUTANTS EMISSIONIN RELATION TOROAD TRAFFIC IN THE CITY OF LOME (TOGO) FROM 2010 TO 2019

The automobile fleet in Togo has increased in the last decades with a patchwork of vehicles that are in majority older than ten (10) years. Until 2019, the car fleet in Togo was almost dependent upon petroleum products, and was consequentlya source of air pollutants emission. Lome is the capital city of Togo with the characteristic of having the highest road traffic volume that significantly impacts air quality. In accordance with the EMEP/EEA air pollutant emission inventory guide and the COPERT method, emissions of carbone monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) and particulate matter (PM) are respectively estimated to: 2621.674 tCO 82.444 tNOx 558.778 tNMVOC and 7.241 tPM. In the time series 2010-2019, emissions of CO, NMVOCs and NOx fell overall with average yearly rates by respectively 83,0234 66,4888 and 0,8073 t/year whereas the PM emission rose(0,8208 t/year).

Skin cancers in people with albinism in Togo in 2019: results of two rounds of national mobile skin care clinics

BackgroundIn people with albinism (PWA), the deficiency of melanin increase the risk of skin cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of skin cancers and characteristics of these detected skin cancers (histological types, localization) in PWA in 10 cities in Togo in 2019.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study of medical records of PWA systematically examined during two mobile skin care clinics in 2019, as part of a programme for the prevention and management of skin cancers in these subjects.ResultsDuring the study period, 280 (95.2%) of the 294 PWA consulted, had developed skin lesions. Of the 280 PWA, the pathological reports from the medical records of 33 patients (11.8%; (95%CI = [8.2–16.2]) had concluded to non-melanoma skin cancers. The mean age of these 33 patients was 38.6 ± 15.2 years and the sex-ratio was 1. Their occupations were mainly resellers (21.2%), traders (15.2%) and farmers (12.2%). In the 33 patients, 54 cases of non-melanoma skin cancers were identified, with some patients having more than one tumor, and some of them having more than one (histologically confirmed) diagnosis. These 54 non-melanoma skin cancers were divided into 21 cases of invasive squamous cell carcinomas, 2 cases of Bowen’s disease and 31 cases of basal cell carcinomas. These non-melanoma skin cancers mainly occurred in the head and neck (33 cases; 61.1%), the upper limbs (15 cases; 27, 8%) and the trunk (4 cases; 7.4%).ConclusionThe results of this study show a high prevalence of skin cancers among PWAs in Togo in 2019, only non-melanoma skin cancers. In addition, they illustrate the role of ultraviolet rays with regard to the localization of skin cancers and the occupations of patients. Popularization and compliance with photo protection measures, systematic and regular examination of the skin of these PWAs will allow early detection and treatment of these skin cancers.

Modeling of the Global Daily Horizontal Solar Radiation Data over Togo

Solar photovoltaic appears to be the most interesting renewable energy in developing countries where its deposit is abundant. Unfortunately, the lack of precise knowledge of solar radiation deposit and its limited data hinder optimal exploitation of solar installations. This study presents a performing model for daily global horizontal solar radiation for the five regional capitals in Togo: Lomé, Atakpamé, Sokodé, Kara and Dapaong. The data used for the study were obtained from the General Directorate of National Meteorology of Togo, for five years. The model developed combines linear and nonlinear methods with harmonic and exponential terms taking into account climatological parameters such as location latitude, daily relative humidity, daily ratio of sunshine duration and daily mean temperature. Statistical errors of the model were compared to those of two previous models elaborated for Togo and Nigeria. The results showed that the model is more efficient to predict global horizontal solar radiation over the five main cities in Togo. The comparison of estimated data and measured ones showed a good agreement between them.

Prevalence of hepatitis B among childbearing women and infant born to HBV-positive mothers in Togo

BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a public health problem in Togo and transmission to the child occurs mainly during childbirth. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of HBV among childbearing women and infants born to HBV positive mothers in Togo.MethodsA national cross-sectional study was carried out in six cities in Togo in the six health regions in Togo. Mother-child pairs were recruited from immunization centers or pediatric wards in Lomé, Tsévié, Atakpamé, Sokodé, Kara and Dapaong in 2017. Women aged 18 and over with one child of at least 6 months old were included. A standardized questionnaire was used for data collection and HBV screening was performed using Determine® rapid tests. The prevalence of HBV, defined by a positive HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), was estimated in mothers and then in infants of mothers who were positive for HBsAg. Logistic regression model was performed to identify risk factors for HBsAg positivity in mothers.ResultsA total of 2105 mothers-pairs child were recruited. The median age of mothers and infants was 29 years, interquartile range (IQR) [25–33] and 2.1 years, IQR [1–3] respectively. About 35% of women were screened for HBV during antenatal care and 85% of infants received three doses of HBV immunization. Among mothers, the prevalence of HBV was 10.6, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) [9.4–12.0%], and 177 had detectable HBV viral load (> 10 IU/mL). Among mothers with positive HBsAg, three infants also had positive HBsAg, a prevalence of 1.3, 95% CI [0.2–3.8%]. In multivariable analysis, HIV-infection (aOR = 2.19; p = 0.018), having at least three pregnancies (aOR = 1.46; p = 0.025) and living in Tsévié (aOR = 0.31; p < 0.001) compared to those living in Lomé, were associated to HBV infection in mothers.ConclusionIn this study, one out of 10 childbearing women were infected with HBV, but less than 2% of infant born to HBV positive mothers under 5 years’ old who received immunization under the Expanded Program on Immunization were infected. Improving antenatal screening and providing targeted interventions in babies could help eliminate HBV in Togo.

Low prevalence of syphilis infection among key populations in Togo in 2017: a national cross-sectional survey

BackgroundThe World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends the screening of syphilis among populations highly exposed to HIV. However, data on the prevalence of syphilis in these populations are scarce in Togo. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence of syphilis among males who have sex with males (MSM), female sex workers (FSW) and drug users (DU) in Togo.MethodsA cross-sectional bio-behavioral study was conducted in August and September 2017 using a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method in eight major cities in Togo. A standardized questionnaire was used to record socio-demographic data and sexual behavior patterns. A blood sample was taken and SD Bioline Duo VIH/Syphilis rapid test was used to test for HIV and syphilis.ResultsA total of 2158 key populations (678 MSM, 1003 FSW and 477 DU), with an average age of 27.6 years (standard deviation 8.8 years) participated in the study. Prevalence of syphilis was 0.6% (95% CI = [0.3–1.0]) with no statistical significance between the three groups: null among MSM, 0.8% among FSW (95% CI = [0.37–1.63]) and 1.1% among DU (95% CI = [0.39–2.57]). There was no relation between HIV status and syphilis (p = 0.236). Among the 298 HIV-positive people, none was diagnosed with syphilis.ConclusionsFindings from this study reveal a low prevalence rate of syphilis among key populations in Togo. Specific interventions into HIV prevention programs should be reinforced to eliminate syphilis in Togo.

Prevalence of HIV infection and hepatitis B and factors associated with them among men who had sex with men in Togo in 2017.

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are a population at risk of contracting both HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV). The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of these diseases and the factors associated with them among MSM in Togo in 2017. This cross-sectional study took place in eight major cities in Togo from August through September, 2017. MSM aged 18 years and older were recruited with the respondent-driven sampling method. Data on sexual behavior were collected with a standardized questionnaire. Rapid tests were used to screen for HIV and HBV. In all, 678 MSM with a median age of 23 years (interquartile range: 21-26) were recruited, 68.7% of them living in Lomé, the capital of Togo. The prevalence of HIV was 22.0% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 18.9-25.3) and that of HBV 7.1% (95% CI 5.3-9.3). Seven (1.0%) MSM were co-infected with HIV and HBV. Age, place of residence, living with a male partner, the number of male partners in the 12 months before the study, and history of HIV testing were associated with HIV infection (P<0.05). Age and living in Lomé were associated with HBV infection (P<0.05). The results of this study highlight the importance of focusing response efforts on populations at risk of contracting STIs through routine screening and vaccination.

Prevalence and factors associated to disclosure of same-sex practices to family members and health care workers among men who have sex with men in Togo

ABSTRACTDisclosure of same-sex practices is associated with improved access to health services and better health outcomes. Our aim was to estimate the prevalence of same-sex practice disclosure to family members and health care workers (HCW) in two cities in Togo. 683 MSM ≥18 years of age were surveyed using respondent driven sampling (RDS) for a cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire in Lomé (354 (51.8%)) and Kara (n = 329 (48.2%)). Median age was lower in Lomé than in Kara. A significantly higher proportion of MSM in Lomé (RDSa: 37.0%; 95% CI: 29.7, 44.3) than in Kara (RDSa: 8.0%; 95% CI: 4.7, 11.3) told a HCW that they have sex with men. Disclosure to a family member was associated with female gender, living with HIV, difficulties accessing health services, and blackmail. Disclosure to a HCW was associated with living with HIV, and physical abuse. MSM had decreased odds of disclosure to a HCW if they were living in Kara, reported female gender or intersex, or if had difficulties accessing health services. These data highlight the positive health outcomes associated with disclosure contextualized by the complex environments in which disclosure of same-sex practices takes place.

Risk factors of hepatitis B virus surface antigen carriage and serological profile of HBsAg carriers in Lom\xe9 Togo, 2016

BackgroundIn Togo, the prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Surface Antigen (HBsAg) among young people aged 15–24 years was estimated at 16.4% in 2010; however, risk factors for HBsAg carriage are poorly documented. We sought to identify risk factors for HBsAg carriage and the serological profile of HBsAg carriers in Lomé (capital city of Togo).MethodWe conducted a case control study from October 2016 to March 2017 in Lomé. Cases and controls were randomly selected from a database of Institut National d’Hygiène (INH) of Lomé during a free screening campaign for hepatitis B. We calculated means, frequencies, proportions, odds ratios (OR), and 95% confidence interval (CI) and performed logistic regression.ResultsWe included 83 confirmed cases and 249 controls. The median age was 31 years among cases and 30 years among the controls. The sex ratios (M/F) were 11/6 among cases and 4/3 for the controls. The independent risk factors for HBsAg carriage were the awareness of hepatitis B serological status (OR = 3.56, 95% CI [1.80–7.04]) and Kabyè-tem ethnic group (OR = 3.56, 95% CI [1.98–6.39]). Among HBsAg carriers, 13.3% were at the viral replication stage (all of whom were between 30 and 45 years of age) and 1.2% were at the acute stage of the disease. The prevalence of co-infection with hepatitis B and C was 4.80%. All co-infections were in women aged 24–28 years.ConclusionThe Kabyè-tem ethnic group is at risk of HBsAg carriage in Lomé. Of note, most HBsAg carriers in this ethnic group are aware of their HBsAg serological status. Furthermore, the prevalence of Hepatitis among adults of reproductive age is high and is cause for concern. We therefore recommend screening and vaccination campaigns at subsidized prices among people aged 30 years and older.

Prevalence and factors associated with syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B virus infections among men who have sex with men in Togo in 2017

Introduction Hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been linked to an increased risk of HIV transmission and disease progression among men who have sex with men (MSM), but their frequency and distribution in this community have not been extensively studied in Togo. In addition, a holistic understanding of transmission patterns of these STIs is required in order to develop sustainable prevention strategies and reduce transmission among MSM. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Togo in 2017. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted in eight main cities in Togo from August 1 to September 30, 2017. MSM aged 18 years and above were recruited using the respondent driven sampling method. Data including socio-demographic characteristics, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing history, condom use patterns, sexual partners characteristics and behaviors were collected using a questionnaire during face-to-face interviews. Blood samples were drawn after the interview for STIs screening using rapid tests. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with syphilis, HBV and HIV infections among MSM. Results Out of a total of 711 MSM recruited, 69.7% were living in Lome, which is the capital city of Togo. Median age of study participants was 23 years, interquartile range (21–27 years) and 91.4% had at least secondary education level. At least three MSM over ten reported having condomless anal sex during the last month. The prevalence of syphilis, HIV, and HBV infection among 678 (95.3%) MSM who accepted the screening test was 0.0% [upper limit of 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.9%], 21.9% (95% CI [18.9–25.3%]), and 7.1% (95% CI [5.3–9.3%]), respectively. Among them, 7 (1.0%) (95% CI [0.4–2.2]) had HIV and HBV co-infection. The prevalence of HBV infection was not associated with HIV infection status (4.7% among MSM infected with HIV and 7.8% among MSM not infected with HIV, P = 0.199). Age, place of residency, nationality, MSM membership, previous HIV screening, and living with a male partner were significantly associated with HIV infection (P Conclusion Our findings emphasize the importance of targeting HIV and viral hepatitis testing and prevention efforts to populations at risk for STIs. Despite all the awareness campaigns, the prevalence of STIs among MSM remains high. This urges the implementation of routine screening, vaccine-based prevention, and education programs for this most-at-risk population.

Modeling of the Solar Potential of Lomé, Atakpamé and Mango from Weather Data in TOGO

In this paper, we investigate the solar potential of three different cities in TOGO (Lomé, Atakpamé and Mango) in order to determine the empirical relationships allowing us to calculate the monthly global sunshine from the relative humidity <i>RH</i>, the mean temperature <i>T</i>, and monthly average values of the non-atmospheric sunlight <i>H0</i> according to appropriate models. The models that have been chosen are those for which the availability of data necessary for their validation poses no difficulty. On the basis of the Mean Absolute Errors (MAE), the Mean Bias Error (MBE) and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) we were able to identify for each city the appropriate model. The advantage of this work is to present, through the determination of the MAE, MBE and RMSE parameters, the importance of the appropriate model in order to determine the photovoltaic potential estimation of a city.

Kinship, Trust and Moral Hazard in the Motorcycle-Taxi Market in Togo and Benin

In the motorcycle-taxi market in most Sub-Saharan African countries, the relation between vehicle owner and driver is characterised by a principal-agent problem with the following features: the owner cannot observe the final output of the driver and therefore cannot condition a wage on it, and higher effort from the driver depreciates the motorcycle. These two features imply that it is in the owner's best interest that the driver exerts as little effort as possible while still leasing the motorcycle from him. The problem with low-effort implementation is that the motorcycle will not generate enough revenue. I analyse the contractual arrangements between owners and the drivers in this market using survey data from four cities in Togo and Benin. Evidence suggests that the quest for trust through kinship between owner and driver may explain the prevalence of a contract that induces drivers to exert excessive effort, leading to adverse outcomes like traffic accidents.