Abidjan, June 17, 2026 – The ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ARCC), in collaboration with the Support Programme for Competition and Consumer Product Safety in Sub-Saharan Africa (PACoSPro), has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign targeting public and private stakeholders in The Gambia. This strategic initiative aims to better equip West Africa to navigate the competitive landscape shaped by digital transformation and the expansion of regional trade.
Officials from both institutions converged in Banjul from June 15 to 17 for a national seminar on competition law and policy. During the gathering, they underscored the critical need for a unified approach to counter emerging anti-competitive practices that accompany the surge in cross-border commerce and the proliferation of digital platforms.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Simeon Koffi, Executive Director of the ARCC, emphasized that the ongoing economic shifts necessitate enhanced cooperation among competition authorities, government administrations, media outlets, regional organizations, and international partners.
According to Dr. Koffi, only a cohesive and inclusive strategy can establish more resilient, equitable, and integrated markets, ultimately benefiting the populations across West Africa.
“We are steadfast in our commitment to fortifying our collaboration with national competition authorities, UEMOA, other regional economic communities, the African Competition Forum, and our international allies,” the ARCC head affirmed.
Speaking on behalf of PACoSPro, Ms. Mariana Tavares highlighted that this European Union-funded program supports regional and national bodies in crafting and harmonizing regulatory frameworks pertinent to competition and consumer protection.
She explained that a core objective of the program is to assist competent authorities in implementing consistent and effective policies capable of overseeing rapidly evolving markets.
Representing the Gambian Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mariama Fofana reiterated The Gambia’s unwavering dedication to fostering fair competition and robust consumer protection.
She stressed that competition serves as a vital catalyst for stimulating innovation, boosting productivity, attracting investment, and promoting economic development.
“Cultivating an environment conducive to equitable competition, safeguarding consumers, and advancing the private sector remains a paramount national priority,” she declared.
Participants also noted that the complexities presented by globalized trade and the digital economy transcend the capabilities of any single institution, thereby making a convergence of efforts among national, regional, and international actors indispensable.
Organizers stated that the partnership between the ARCC, PACoSPro, and the Gambian Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) marks a significant stride forward for the ECOWAS region. This collaboration is specifically designed to enhance the predictability of regulatory mechanisms, boost the appeal of West African markets for investors, and ensure consumers reap the advantages of regional economic integration.
Furthermore, this alliance reflects the region’s determination to align with global best practices in competition law and consumer protection, particularly as the digital economy rapidly redefines market dynamics.
