The ECOWAS Consultative Committee on Competition convened for its tenth meeting in Praia, Cabo Verde, from March 26 to 29, 2025. The agenda included discussions on strategic documents related to a Cooperation Agreement on competition and consumer protection within ECOWAS, as well as guidelines for mergers and acquisitions.
Executive Director of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA), Simeon K. Koffi, acknowledged the participation of CCC members and expressed gratitude to Cabo Verde’s Minister of Finance for facilitating the event. He noted the significance of the meeting's timing, coinciding with ECOWAS's 50th anniversary and highlighting progress in regional integration since the establishment of ERCA.
Koffi highlighted the pivotal role of cooperation among member states, state actors, businesses, and civil society in advancing competition and consumer protection. "The contribution of all of whom is crucial to achieving the key objectives of competition authorities," he stated, emphasizing market efficiency and consumer welfare.
Chairperson of the CCC, Talim Abe, praised the CCC's inaugural session of 2025, thanking members and ERCA for their support. He also expressed appreciation to Cabo Verde and the ECOWAS Commission for facilitating the successful meeting.
Representing the ECOWAS Commission, Kelly Lopes reaffirmed the importance of competition laws and their benefits, citing challenges in strategic sectors like industry and digital markets. She urged delegates to focus on enhancing competitiveness and creating a fair business environment for regional development.
Secretary of State for Finance, Alcindo Mota, welcomed attendees and reiterated Cabo Verde’s commitment to regional cooperation. Stressing the importance of fair competition, he remarked, "This meeting symbolizes our collective commitment to strengthen regional cooperation and to promote fair and equitable competition practices throughout West Africa."
The event underscored the ongoing dedication to bolster cooperation and promote competitive practices vital for economic growth in the region.
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