Banjul, 17 June 2026 — Regional and national stakeholders in Gambia gathered for a pivotal three-day seminar aimed at fortifying West Africa’s competitive landscape amid rapid digital transformation and expanding cross-border trade. Organised by the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA) and the EU-backed PACoSPro initiative, the event focused on equipping public and private sector actors with the tools to navigate emerging anti-competitive practices reshaping regional markets.
Building resilient markets through coordinated competition policies
At the core of discussions was the recognition that digitalisation and globalised trade are intensifying competition challenges across West Africa. Dr. Simeon Koffi, ERCA’s Executive Director, emphasised that economic shifts demand a unified front among competition authorities, government agencies, media, regional bodies, and international partners.
« A cohesive and inclusive strategy is essential to foster markets that are not only competitive but also fair, resilient, and deeply integrated for the benefit of West African citizens, » stated Dr. Koffi. He reaffirmed ERCA’s commitment to deepening collaboration with national competition bodies, UEMOA, other regional economic communities, the African Competition Forum, and global partners.
Harmonising regulations for a fair digital economy
Mariana Tavares, representing PACoSPro, highlighted the programme’s role in supporting ECOWAS and national institutions to refine regulatory frameworks for competition and consumer protection. Funded by the European Union, PACoSPro aims to empower authorities with robust policies capable of adapting to evolving market dynamics.
« Our goal is to create a level playing field where innovation thrives, consumers are safeguarded, and businesses can compete on merit, » Tavares noted. The initiative aligns closely with Gambia’s national priorities, particularly in fostering a business environment conducive to private sector growth and foreign investment.
Gambia’s commitment to competitive markets
Mariama Fofana, Permanent Secretary at Gambia’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, underscored the country’s dedication to fair competition and consumer rights. She described competition as a catalyst for economic progress, driving innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
« Ensuring a fair, transparent, and consumer-friendly marketplace is not just a strategic choice—it is a national imperative, » Fofana declared. She also stressed the need for Gambia to align with regional and international best practices to enhance its economic attractiveness.
Strengthening regional integration through unified action
Participants at the seminar agreed that the challenges posed by digital market expansion and globalisation exceed the capacity of any single institution. A collaborative approach involving national, regional, and international actors was identified as critical to building predictable regulatory mechanisms, boosting investor confidence, and ensuring that regional economic integration delivers tangible benefits to consumers.
The partnership between ERCA, PACoSPro, and Gambia’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) represents a significant milestone for ECOWAS. By pooling resources and expertise, the alliance seeks to modernise competition laws, enhance market predictability, and position West Africa as a dynamic hub for digital commerce.
As digital platforms redefine market rules, the region’s proactive stance reflects its determination to embrace global standards while protecting the interests of its people.