ONAT, Ordre National des Architectes du Togo, enfin le numéro 202!

After 11 years of patient work and dedication, I have finally joined the small family of accredited Architects in my home country, Togo.

On the last Thursday, January 11, 2024, the 3^rd episode of the yearly event, ONAT à la Rencontre du Togo (ORT-3), was specially featured with the swearing-in of eleven Architects as new members of the National Order of Architects of Togo, ONAT. Among them, I am fortunate to take, on the national board of accredited Architects, the number 202, which I subjectively appreciate for its beautiful symmetry.

During the three-day event (January 10 - 12, 2024), ONAT made a memorable encounter with the people of Sokoke, Chef-lieu city of the Central region. From open conferences and physical activities to meal-sharing and tourism, national government officials, local authorities, members of ONAT, as well as architects from brother countries (Ghana, Burkina-Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroun, Guinée-Bissau, Democratic Republic of Cong), and the local people of Sokoke have participated together in a wide range of activities intended to discuss the pressing challenges of urban development and construction, get the people further informed about the role of Architects in the development of our nation, demystify the profession of Architect to the public, and highlight the vital importance of consulting accredited professionals for all kinds, sizes, and scales of construction projects.

Different participating actors, including local government authorities, professional architects, and the local people exchanged ideas and experiences during a scientific debate about locally and internationally shared challenges of sustainable urban development, territorial planning, building design, and construction, with a particular highlight on the need for local norms, cultural adaptation and promoting local construction materials.

This is the place and the opportunity to express my gratitude to the First and Greatest Architect of All Things and Events, for life and the chance to do what I do the best. Meanwhile, I send my deep appreciation to our national and local authorities of Sokode, and the members of the Superior Council of ONAT for the successful organization of the events I am still happy to have taken part in. Further gratitude and respect to Architect Péyébinesso C.G. LIMAZIE (current president of ONAT) and he whom I affectionately call "Parrain", Architect Eya-Eza KAO, both for their unforgettable support and friendship.

To all of you, fellow architects, colleagues, friends, and family, let’s keep up the good work!

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