By: Alieu Ceesay
The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and promoting fair market practices.
At a press briefing on the Commission’s activities over the past six months, officials highlighted significant strides in addressing market abuses and enhancing consumer protection.
The Commission also demands the reform of the Consumers Protection Act 2007. Which limits the operation of the Commission.
With limited financial and human resources, the Committee views creating a fair trading environment for its people.
“As we continue to navigate the complexities of the market, our aim is to ensure that the public remains informed about our efforts to create a competitive and fair marketplace.”
In recent months, the GCCPC has undertaken critical actions, including investigating and enforcing directives against businesses that violate competition laws. Notably, the Commission’s investigation into I-Care Optics revealed illegal market practices, leading to directives for the company to cease any market concentration efforts.
“The Board of Commissioners found I-Care Optics in breach of the Competition Act 2007 and directed I-Care to desist from any attempt of market concertation and market sharing,” Yassin Senghore, Chair of the Board of Commissioners, stated.
Similarly, the Commission addressed the abuse of dominance by the Gam Petroleum Storage Facility Company, which was found to violate Section 31 of the Competition Act. The Commission issued directives for the company to cease its refusal to deal, a practice that significantly impacts competition in the market. “The Ministry of Petroleum expressed their willingness to facilitate the development of a mechanism for the allocation of storage as recommended by the Commission,” Senghore confirmed.
Beyond enforcement, the GCCPC has been proactive in its advocacy efforts. The Commission launched a new Competition Guide for Public Procurement to ensure transparency and fairness in government procurement processes. “These guidelines are designed to promote competition and prevent practices that might undermine the integrity of the procurement process,” the Commission emphasized.
The Commission also continues to engage in consumer education, including open-air sensitization efforts and training programs for local authorities and police officers. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to instill a culture of competition and consumer protection across The Gambia.
As the Commission moves forward, it is focused on revising outdated legal frameworks to better address the challenges of a rapidly evolving market. “The amendment of these Acts is essential as it ensures [the Commission’s mandate] remains robust, impactful, and responsive to the evolving market landscape,” Yassin noted.
The GCCPC reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing market fairness and consumer welfare, calling for continued collaboration with all stakeholders to achieve these goals.
Consumers in the Gambia continue to lament the policy of open market prices, which allows traders to price goods at any given price.
Babucarr Ceesay, Director of competition, also stated that the Gambian market is a credit-based market, making it difficult for the Commission to have relevant information.
