In a significant move to bolster West Africa’s readiness for the evolving digital landscape, the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ARCC), in partnership with the Programme to Support Competition and Consumer Product Safety in Sub-Saharan Africa (PACoSPro), has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign. This initiative, specifically targeting public and private stakeholders in The Gambia, aims to equip the region to navigate the complex competition challenges arising from digital transformation and the rapid growth of regional trade.
From June 15 to 17, officials from both organizations convened in Banjul for a national seminar focused on competition law and policy. During these sessions, a strong emphasis was placed on the critical need for collaborative action to counteract emerging anti-competitive practices, which often accompany the expansion of cross-border commerce and the proliferation of digital platforms.
Dr. Simeon Koffi, the Executive Director of the ARCC, highlighted at the seminar’s opening that current economic shifts demand enhanced cooperation. This collaboration must extend across competition authorities, public administrations, media outlets, regional organizations, and international partners.
He underscored that only through a coordinated and inclusive strategy can West African markets become more resilient, fairer, and better integrated, ultimately benefiting the region’s populations.
“We are committed to continually strengthening our cooperative efforts with national competition authorities, UEMOA, other regional economic communities, the African Competition Forum, and our international partners,” affirmed the ARCC official.
Speaking on behalf of PACoSPro, Mariana Tavares explained that the program, backed by European Union funding, supports both regional and national institutions. Its mission is to assist in the development and harmonization of regulatory frameworks concerning competition and consumer protection.
She elaborated that a core objective of PACoSPro is to empower competent authorities to establish coherent and effective policies, crucial for governing rapidly evolving markets.
Representing The Gambian Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mariama Fofana unequivocally reaffirmed The Gambia’s dedication to fostering fair competition and robust consumer protection.
She emphasized the pivotal role competition plays as a catalyst for stimulating innovation, enhancing productivity, attracting vital investments, and driving overall economic development.
“Establishing an environment conducive to equitable competition, safeguarding consumer interests, and promoting private sector growth remains a national priority,” she stated.
Participants at the seminar also acknowledged that the intricate challenges presented by globalized trade and the digital economy far exceed the capacity of any single institution to address alone. This reality, they noted, makes a unified convergence of efforts among national, regional, and international stakeholders absolutely essential.
Organizers view the collaboration between ARCC, PACoSPro, and The Gambian Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) as a significant stride forward for the entire ECOWAS region. This partnership is specifically designed to enhance the predictability of regulatory frameworks, boost the appeal of West African markets for investors, and ensure consumers fully reap the benefits of regional economic integration.
Furthermore, this alliance reflects the region’s strong commitment to aligning with leading international practices in competition law and consumer protection, especially as the digital economy rapidly reshapes market dynamics.
