Togo’s Quest for Accuracy: Shifting the Global Perception of Africa Lome, Togo – Togo’s proposal to the United Nations General Assembly to abandon the Mercator world map has reignited a conversation about the depiction of Africa on the global stage.
The African Union’s endorsement of this initiative in April 2026 has underscored the continent’s desire for a more accurate representation of its geographical size and significance.
The Mercator projection, introduced in 1569, has been a cornerstone in global cartography, yet it has been criticized for its inaccuracies, particularly in depicting the Southern Hemisphere. This distortion has inadvertently influenced perceptions of Africa’s size and importance, argues Faya Ndiaye, co-founder of Speak Up Africa. Togo’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, has confirmed that a resolution to promote a more precise map will be presented for a vote at the UN General Assembly in September 2026.
The African Union’s support for this resolution highlights its belief that the Mercator projection contributes to geopolitical distortions that diminish Africa’s true size and importance.
The campaign seeks to encourage international organizations, governments, and educational institutions to move away from the 16th-century Mercator projection. Togo’s stance is that the prevalent projections are geographically deceptive and undermine the continent’s global standing. While some critics argue that the Mercator projection, despite its flaws, remains a valuable navigational tool, they also emphasize the need for any map changes to be executed meticulously to avoid confusion.
The African Union’s backing of this movement represents a significant shift in the way Africa views its representation on the global stage.
The “Correct The Map “campaign is gaining momentum both within Africa and among scholars and policymakers worldwide who acknowledge the necessity for a more precise portrayal of the continent. This debate over the Mercator projection is not new, but Togo’s initiative has brought it to the forefront of international dialogue.
The country’s push for a more accurate depiction of Africa on the world map reflects a broader desire for the continent to redefine its role in global affairs.
The implications of this campaign extend beyond visual representation; it symbolizes Africa’s struggle for recognition, equity, and justice on the global stage.
As the world navigates the complexities of global relations, Togo’s campaign may serve as a catalyst for a more balanced and inclusive view of the world.
The United Nations General Assembly’s vote on the resolution proposed by Togo will be a critical moment, as the international community’s response to this call for accuracy could reshape the way we perceive and understand Africa’s role in the global order.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: rfi
Source: Anne-Marie Bissada
