Gambia hosts ECOWAS competition committee to chart regional market growth

The ECOWAS Consultative Competition Committee (CCC) held its 9th statutory meeting in Banjul, The Gambia, from November 12 to 15, 2024, to discuss the draft 2024-2028 strategic plan for the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA).

Delegates also reviewed findings from a recent digital market study conducted across member states and explored ways to strengthen cooperation agreements with national competition authorities.

The meeting, hosted by the Gambian government, brought together CCC members and ERCA staff to enhance competition policies and consumer protection across West Africa.

Dr. Simeon K. Koffi, Executive Director of ERCA, commended The Gambia’s Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration, and Employment for its support and hospitality. On behalf of ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray and Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture Mrs. Massandje Touré-Litse, Dr. Koffi praised the commitment of member states to regional integration efforts.

Dr. Koffi underscored the importance of the meeting, noting that it followed the recent swearing-in of the ERCA Council members, a crucial step in strengthening ERCA’s institutional framework.

He highlighted the progress achieved under ERCA’s 2019-2023 strategic plan and urged members to build on this momentum by domesticating the regional competition framework, collaborating with national authorities, and raising awareness about competition policies.

Chairperson of the CCC, Dr. Talime Abe, celebrated the efforts of ECOWAS and ERCA in promoting fair competition.

He reiterated the committee’s role in reviewing policies, conducting research, and making recommendations to enhance competition and consumer protection across the region.

The Gambian Deputy Permanent Secretary of Trade, Mr. Abdoulie Bojang, representing Minister Baboucarr O. Joof, reaffirmed The Gambia’s dedication to regional cooperation. He highlighted the importance of adapting competition policies to address emerging market challenges and creating an equitable economic environment where businesses can thrive.

The meeting emphasized the need for stronger institutional and legislative frameworks, harmonized competition policies, and a unified approach to driving sustainable economic development in West Africa.