Lomé, April 2, 2025 – (AfreePress) – The city of Praia, in the Republic of Cape Verde, hosted the 10th meeting of the ECOWAS Competition Advisory Committee (CCC) from March 26 to 29, 2025. This high-level gathering brought together CCC members and representatives of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ARCC) to review and validate several strategic documents related to market regulation within the community.
Key topics discussed included the implementation of the Cooperation Agreement on Competition Rules and Consumer Protection, the distribution of merger and acquisition notification fees, and the study of performance indicators to monitor competition dynamics within the region.
A firm commitment to a balanced market
Speaking on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission, ARCC Executive Director Dr. Simeon K. Koffi commended the active participation of delegates and the continued commitment of Member States to strengthening competition within the community space. He expressed his deep appreciation to the Cape Verdean government, whose efforts to establish an effective regulatory framework for competition have been recognized as exemplary in the region.
This meeting is part of a historic dynamic, coinciding with the celebrations of ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary and the operationalization of the ARCC, marking a decisive milestone in the regional integration process.
A call to action for a more competitive market
CCC President Dr. Talim Abe extended his greetings to the participants and thanked the Cape Verdean authorities for their warm hospitality. He highlighted the crucial role of the ARCC in coordinating efforts to harmonize competition rules within the ECOWAS space.
Meanwhile, Ms. Kelly Lopes, Political Advisor and ECOWAS Resident Representative in Cape Verde, reiterated the numerous benefits of a strong competition law for the community market. She emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation to address current challenges in strategic sectors such as industry, transport, telecommunications, and digital markets.
Cape verde’s renewed commitment to regional cooperation
Speaking on behalf of Cape Verde’s Minister of Finance, Secretary of State Mr. Alcindo Mota reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting regional economic cooperation and promoting fair business practices. He underscored the importance of healthy competition in driving innovation, enhancing economic efficiency, and ensuring a more inclusive distribution of growth benefits.
The 10th CCC meeting concluded with a call for concerted action to ensure the effective enforcement of community regulations, protect consumers, and establish a transparent and competitive economic environment conducive to sustainable development in West Africa.
Olivier ADJA
