Togo Calls for Revision of World Maps to Reflect Africa’s True Size

Kigali, April 15, 2026 - Togo has formally called on the United Nations to promote the use of world maps that more accurately reflect the true size of Africa, challenging the continued dominance of the Mercator projection in global institutions.

The country’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, raised the issue on April 13, 2026, arguing that commonly used maps significantly distort the relative size of the African continent.

“The size of Africa shown on many world maps is not accurate. We are asking for representations based on scientific truth,” he said.

The African Union (AU) has backed the initiative, encouraging Togo to spearhead efforts aimed at phasing out the Mercator projection in government and international use.

Originally developed in 1569 by Gerardus Mercator, the projection has long been used for navigation but is widely criticized for distorting the size of landmasses-making regions near the equator, such as Africa, appear smaller than they are relative to areas closer to the poles.

Advocacy groups including Africa No Filter and Speak Up Africa are supporting the initiative, calling for the adoption of maps that more accurately depict the true proportions of countries and continents.

Moky Makura, Executive Director of Africa No Filter, emphasized that the issue goes beyond cartography. “This is not just about maps, but about ensuring that Africa is seen as it truly is,” she said.

According to organizers, a proposal outlining potential revisions to global mapping standards is being prepared for discussion at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2026, where member states are expected to debate and potentially vote on the initiative.

Earlier this year, the African Union urged its 55 member states to reconsider the use of the Mercator projection and advocate for more accurate geographic representations in official and educational materials.