Togo/Bas-Mono: Four dead after food poisoning in Kpétsou

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Extract from the article: The municipality of Kpétsou, located in the Bas-Mono prefecture in southeastern Togo, is facing a major health alert following the consumption of a suspicious broth made from beef blood known as “Houmbli.” According to numerous corroborating account

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The municipality of Kpétsou, located in the Bas-Mono prefecture in southeastern Togo, is facing a major health alert following the consumption of a suspicious broth made from beef blood known as “Houmbli.”  According to numerous corroborating accounts, this product was sold in balls at 5 for 25 CFA francs and was marketed during the night of Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the Kpalogo market.

This Monday, residents have reported numerous episodes of severe diarrhea, intense abdominal pain, and vomiting. Many people have reportedly received treatment at local health facilities, while persistent rumors indicate a death linked to this food poisoning.

According to recent information, the Ministry of Health reports four deaths, including two on Monday, July 27, at Saint Jean d'Afagnan Hospital. Currently, about 30 patients are admitted to Afagnan Hospital.

The symptoms described are consistent with food poisoning, usually caused by harmful bacteria (such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Clostridium perfringens) or toxic substances present in poorly stored or contaminated animal products.

A woman whose identity and place of origin remain unknown is believed to have sold the suspect product, making the investigation more difficult. According to several witnesses, she is a part-time saleswoman who does not often go to the Kpalogo market, which complicates her identification by local authorities and health services. Given the urgency of the situation, the residents of Kpétsou are calling for a swift response from the health services of the Bas-Mono prefecture.

The Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, Professor Tchin Darre, promptly ordered a rapid response from technical teams on the ground to determine the exact origins of the incident and prevent any further spread. Research is continuing to establish the precise composition of the suspect product. In the meantime, officials are urging populations to exercise caution and advising them to avoid consuming “Houmbli” until further notice.

Elom AKAKPO