In an effort to enhance competitive frameworks and consumer protection across Africa, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are implementing a cooperative framework. This initiative addresses potential overlaps in competition rule applications due to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) protocol and multiple existing competition regimes.
The second meeting of REC competition authorities took place from October 23 to 25, 2024, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. It was co-organized by the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA) and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) Commission. Attendees included representatives from various RECs such as the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), UEMOA, AfCFTA Secretariat representatives, and a resource person.
The primary goal of this meeting was to discuss strategies for REC cooperation to improve coherence and efficiency in their missions amid a developing continental competition regime.
Introductory remarks were delivered by heads of various competition authorities including Ms. Lillian K. Mukoronia from ECA, Dr. Willard Mwemba from COMESA, and Dr. Simeon Koffi from ARCC. Additional speeches were given by Prof. Filiga Michel Sawadogo, Commissioner for Regional Cooperation and Market of the WAEMU Commission, and Mr. Olivier Daipo, Deputy Director of Cabinet of the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Speakers emphasized RECs' roles in reforming frameworks to promote free competition among Member States. They supported strengthening collaboration among REC competition authorities to overcome challenges in creating an environment conducive to intra-African trade and investment.
A key outcome was the establishment of a consultation framework for regular interaction among REC authorities on shared interests. This framework aims to develop capacities within RECs to address market changes effectively.
The meeting concluded with resolutions for RECs including forming an ad hoc committee for drafting cooperation frameworks, designating focal points per REC for coordination activities, preparing capacity-building activities on emerging issues in competition policy application, promoting international cooperation for special projects in priority sectors, and continuing implementations from their first meeting held in Lusaka in July 2023.
Participants recommended that the AfCFTA Secretariat ensure ongoing consultations with stakeholders during draft regulation reviews related to the AfCFTA Protocol on Competition Policy. They stressed keeping all REC structures informed about developments regarding these regulations.
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