Janet Samuel, Abuja
ECOWAS Parliament has call for an increased resources and improved collaboration to ensure effective competition in the West African market.
the parliament made the call while presenting it’s committees finding from the parliamentary oversight mission to the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA) at the ongoing Second Ordinary Session of the Parliament in Abuja
In presenting its key findings, the Committee identified lack of sufficient technical staff, particularly in the area of competition law; budgetary constraints hinder the implementation of key activities; delays in approvals of legal documents and collaboration among member states pose additional challenges; the Gambian case highlights the need to address monopolistic practices, abuse of dominant positions, and exclusive privileges enjoyed by certain operators.
In their recommendation, the ECOWAS Parliament will advocate for: Adequate funding for ERCA, including the requested 11% increase for 2024; Adoption of an appropriate organogramme and recruitment of qualified staff; Expedited processing and approval of legal texts related to ERCA’s functioning and partnerships.
Member states are urged to among other things enforce the Regional Competition Directive and adopt national competition law where it does not exist; Strengthen cooperation on competition matters; Collaborate with the regional consumer associations within the framework of the consumer protection directive.
“The ECOWAS Parliament recognizes the critical role of ERCA in promoting competition and economic growth in the region,” stated the mission head, Hon. Medegan Fagla Romaric Sedami. “By implementing these recommendations, we can strengthen ERCA’s effectiveness and create a more level playing field for businesses and consumers across West Africa.”
The mission’s findings and recommendations will be presented to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers and the Authority of Heads of State and Government for consideration and action.
Overall, the oversight mission underscores the critical role of ERCA in promoting competition and economic growth in the ECOWAS region. The mission’s recommendations, if implemented, can significantly strengthen the authority’s effectiveness and contribute to a more level playing field for businesses and consumers across the region.
