Like other African peoples, the Togolese have a strong oral tradition. Little has been done, to promote vernacular literature. Before freedom there were a few Togolese writers using French. Since freedom, regional literature emerged with the works of several novelists and playwrights. Founded in 1967, the African Ballet of Togo has aimed at popularizing the finest orthodox dances.

Togo is a leading world producer of phosphates, which are by far the nation’s most remarkable mineral product. In 1999, 1.7 million metric tons of phosphate rock were mined. Industrial activity is limited but growing. The leading manufactures include cement, flour, palm oil, cotton textiles, beverages, and soap.