Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The ten newly appointed members of the Board of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA) officially assumed their roles this week in Banjul, The Gambia. Following their swearing-in ceremony, the Board members participated in a comprehensive orientation session, introducing them to the ERCA’s mission, legal framework, and strategic objectives.

The session, held under the chairmanship of Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, was facilitated by ERCA’s Executive Director, Dr. Siméon Koffi. Dr. Koffi provided a detailed overview of ERCA’s mandate and regulatory framework, which is supported by three Additional Acts, four Regulations, and six procedure manuals. Together, these legal instruments outline the authority’s approach to maintaining fair competition across the ECOWAS region.

Dr. Koffi highlighted key accomplishments in ERCA’s work, such as strengthening the regulatory and institutional framework, conducting market analysis, supporting member states in competition law implementation, and fostering collaboration with both regional and international organizations. These achievements have solidified ERCA’s role as a key player in ensuring fair competition within the West African economic bloc.

During the session, Board members also elected Ghanaian competition law expert Dr. Juliette Twumasi-Anokye as Chairperson of the ERCA Council. Dr. Twumasi-Anokye, a specialist in competition regulation, will serve a four-year term, during which she will oversee the Council’s activities and work closely with ERCA’s Executive Director to advance the organization’s objectives.

The session concluded with remarks from Commissioner Massandjé Toure-Litse, who emphasized ERCA’s commitment to fostering a competitive and inclusive economic environment for the ECOWAS region.