The Regional Competition Authority of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Support Programme for Competition and Consumer Product Safety in Sub-Saharan Africa have launched a groundbreaking initiative in Gambia to equip West African markets for the challenges of digital transformation and intensified regional trade.

From June 15 to 17 in Banjul, a national seminar on competition law and policy brought together public and private sector stakeholders to address emerging anti-competitive practices linked to cross-border transactions and digital platforms.

a call for unified action in west africa’s evolving economic landscape

At the opening of the event, Dr. Simeon Koffi, Executive Director of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority, emphasized that economic shifts demand stronger collaboration among competition authorities, government agencies, media outlets, regional organizations, and international partners.

« A coordinated and inclusive approach is essential to build resilient, fair, and integrated markets that serve the people of West Africa, » he stated.

The seminar highlighted the need for harmonized regulations to keep pace with rapid digital advancements and cross-border commerce, ensuring that economies of scale benefit local populations rather than a select few.

european-backed initiative targets consumer protection and market fairness

Representing the EU-funded Support Programme for Competition and Consumer Product Safety, Mariana Tavares outlined the initiative’s mission: assisting regional and national institutions in developing and aligning regulatory frameworks for competition and consumer protection.

« Our goal is to empower authorities with coherent, effective policies that regulate fast-evolving markets while safeguarding consumer interests, » she explained.

The programme’s efforts aim to eliminate monopolistic behaviors, foster innovation, and enhance market transparency across West Africa.

gambia reaffirms commitment to fair competition and economic growth

Mariama Fofana, Deputy Permanent Secretary at Gambia’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, underscored the country’s dedication to fostering a level playing field for businesses and protecting consumer rights.

« Equitable competition drives innovation, boosts productivity, and attracts investment—key pillars for sustainable economic development, » she noted.

She added that Gambia remains focused on creating an enabling environment where fair competition, consumer safety, and private sector growth can thrive.

collaboration key to navigating digital market challenges

Participants agreed that the complexities of globalization and the digital economy exceed the capacity of any single institution, making multi-stakeholder cooperation imperative.

The partnership between the ECOWAS Competition Authority, the EU-backed programme, and Gambia’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission marks a significant step toward a more predictable and attractive regulatory environment in West Africa.

This alliance seeks to streamline competition mechanisms, enhance market attractiveness for investors, and ensure that regional economic integration delivers tangible benefits to consumers.

By aligning with international best practices in competition law and consumer protection, West Africa is positioning itself to adapt swiftly to the rapidly changing rules of the digital marketplace.