Banjul hosts regional seminar to shape fair digital competition in West Africa
Banjul, Gambia – A landmark three-day workshop focused on competition law and policy concluded in Banjul this week, bringing together regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to address the growing challenges posed by digital transformation and cross-border trade across West Africa. Organized by the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA) in partnership with the EU-funded Support Programme for Competition and Consumer Protection in Sub-Saharan Africa (SPCCSA), the event aimed to strengthen fair market practices as the region embraces digital commerce.
Building resilient markets through coordinated action
The seminar, held from June 15 to 17, 2026, highlighted the urgent need for unified strategies to combat emerging anti-competitive behaviors linked to the rapid expansion of online platforms and regional trade. Dr. Simeon Koffi, Executive Director of ERCA, emphasized that economic shifts are reshaping market dynamics, making it essential for competition authorities, governments, media, regional bodies, and international partners to work in close alignment.
« Digital innovation is accelerating, but so are the risks of market distortions. Our collective response must be robust, inclusive, and forward-looking to ensure that West African economies remain competitive and fair, » he stated during the opening session.
The ERCA leader also underscored the authority’s commitment to deepening collaboration with national competition agencies, the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), other regional economic communities, the African Competition Forum, and international development partners to foster a unified regulatory environment.
Regional initiatives to harmonize competition and consumer protection
Ms. Mariana Tavares, representing the SPCCSA at the workshop, outlined how the European Union-backed initiative supports regional and national institutions in developing and aligning regulatory frameworks for competition and consumer rights. The programme’s core mission is to empower authorities with the tools and policies needed to navigate evolving market landscapes effectively.
« A well-structured regulatory environment is the backbone of economic resilience. By promoting fair competition and protecting consumers, we create the conditions for sustainable growth and investment attraction in the region, » she noted.
Gambia reaffirms commitment to fair markets and economic development
Speaking on behalf of Gambia’s Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mariama Fofana reinforced the country’s dedication to fostering a level playing field. She described fair competition as a catalyst for innovation, productivity gains, and economic diversification, while stressing that consumer protection remains a cornerstone of national policy.
« Our goal is to cultivate an ecosystem where businesses thrive in a transparent environment, consumers are safeguarded, and private sector growth drives job creation and prosperity, » she said.
Collaboration seen as key to tackling digital-era challenges
Participants acknowledged that the complexities of globalization and the digital economy transcend the capacity of any single institution. They called for stronger synergies between national regulators, regional organizations, and international stakeholders to enhance regulatory predictability, boost investor confidence, and maximize the benefits of regional economic integration.
The workshop marked a significant milestone in the ECOWAS region’s efforts to align with global best practices in competition law and consumer protection. As digital platforms redefine market rules, the Gambia event served as a platform to strengthen regional cooperation and lay the groundwork for more inclusive, competitive, and resilient West African economies.
