Naka Gnassingbé de Souza at SONAFIR: First test for the new road-financing system

Naka Gnassingbé de Souza took office as director general of SONAFIR in Lomé on October 23, becoming the first head of the new company replacing SAFER. Established by decree in June 2026, SONAFIR is tasked with diversifying funding for road infrastructure, while AGEROUTE TOGO will oversee delegated project management. In 2024, road-maintenance needs were estimated at 53.27 billion CFA francs, compared with 23.5 billion that SAFER planned to raise. A former head of ANPGF, de Souza brings experience in financing and guarantees developed through work supporting small businesses.