Abidjan, June 17, 2026 – The ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ARCC) and the Programme to Support Competition and Consumer Product Safety in Sub-Saharan Africa (PACoSPro) have launched a significant awareness campaign targeting both public and private stakeholders in Gambia. This proactive initiative aims to bolster West Africa’s readiness for the competitive pressures emerging from digital transformation and the expansion of regional trade.
Convening in Banjul from June 15 to 17 for a national seminar on competition law and policy, leaders from both institutions underscored the critical need for unified action. Their focus was on countering the novel anti-competitive practices that often accompany the rapid growth of cross-border commerce and digital platforms across the African economy today.
During the opening remarks, Dr. Simeon Koffi, Executive Director of the ARCC, emphasized that current economic shifts necessitate enhanced collaboration. This includes competition authorities, government administrations, media outlets, regional organizations, and international partners, all working in concert.
Dr. Koffi articulated that only a coordinated and inclusive strategy could foster more resilient, equitable, and integrated markets, ultimately benefiting the populations of West Africa. He affirmed, “We are committed to continuously strengthening our partnerships with national competition authorities, UEMOA, other regional economic communities, the African Competition Forum, and our international allies.”
Representing PACoSPro, Ms. Mariana Tavares highlighted the program’s role, funded by the European Union, in assisting regional and national bodies. This support focuses on developing and harmonizing regulatory frameworks for competition and consumer protection, crucial for a robust African economy today.
She explained that a core objective of PACoSPro is to empower competent authorities to implement coherent and effective policies capable of regulating rapidly evolving markets.
Speaking on behalf of the Gambian Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mariama Fofana reiterated Gambia’s steadfast commitment to fostering fair competition and enhancing consumer safeguards. This commitment is vital for sustainable development in West Africa.
Ms. Fofana stressed that competition serves as a fundamental catalyst for spurring innovation, boosting productivity, attracting essential investments, and driving economic growth. She declared, “Establishing an environment conducive to equitable competition, consumer protection, and private sector development remains a paramount national priority.”
Attendees at the seminar also acknowledged that the complexities of globalized trade and the digital economy transcend the capabilities of any single institution. This realization underscores the absolute necessity for convergent efforts among national, regional, and international stakeholders, a key aspect of pan-African news.
According to the organizers, the joint efforts between the ARCC, PACoSPro, and the Gambian Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) represent a significant stride forward for the ECOWAS region. This collaboration seeks to improve the predictability of regulatory mechanisms, boost the attractiveness of West African markets for investors, and ensure consumers fully benefit from regional economic integration.
This strategic partnership also reflects the region’s determination to align with global best practices in competition law and consumer protection, especially as the digital economy swiftly redefines market dynamics across Africa.
