The West African regional competition authority, in partnership with a European-backed initiative, has launched a sweeping campaign in Gambia to equip public and private stakeholders for the challenges of digital market transformation and cross-border trade expansion.
The initiative, unfolding in Banjul from 15 to 17 June, assembled regulators, policymakers, media representatives, and regional bodies for a national seminar on competition law and policy. Discussions centered on the urgent need for coordinated action against anti-competitive practices that emerge alongside the rapid growth of digital platforms and transnational commerce.
Building resilient markets through shared strategies
The executive director of the regional authority emphasized that current economic shifts demand stronger collaboration among competition agencies, government bodies, media outlets, regional organizations, and international partners. A united approach, he argued, is the only way to create markets that are resilient, fair, and deeply integrated for the benefit of West African citizens.
« Strengthening our ties with national competition authorities, the West African Economic and Monetary Union, other regional blocs, the African Competition Forum, and our international allies remains a top priority, » the director stated.
Harmonizing regulations for a digital future
A representative of the EU-funded program supporting the initiative highlighted its role in helping regional and national institutions develop and align competition and consumer protection frameworks. The goal is to enable regulators to craft policies that keep pace with rapidly evolving markets.
The Gambian government, represented at the event, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering fair competition and safeguarding consumer rights. Officials underscored that a competitive environment drives innovation, boosts productivity, attracts investment, and accelerates economic development.
« Establishing conditions for equitable competition, robust consumer protection, and a thriving private sector is a cornerstone of our national agenda, » said a senior government representative.
Uniting forces for sustainable growth
Participants agreed that the complexities of globalization and digital commerce exceed the reach of any single institution. A unified effort across national, regional, and international levels is essential to enhance regulatory predictability, make West African markets more attractive to investors, and ensure citizens fully benefit from regional economic integration.
This partnership marks a significant step forward for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), aiming to align regional practices with global standards in competition law and consumer protection amid an ever-changing digital marketplace.
