Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting fair competition as a key driver of trade, investment and inclusive economic growth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking during the opening of the AfCFTA Competition Policy Sensitization Workshop in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Trade Regina Ombam said effective competition policies are essential in ensuring that the benefits of the continental free trade agreement are enjoyed by businesses and consumers alike.
The workshop was organised by the AfCFTA Secretariat in collaboration with the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) to build awareness on the role of competition policy in facilitating cross-border trade across Africa.
Addressing participants, Ombam said fair competition safeguards consumers, promotes innovation, prevents anti-competitive business practices and creates more opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to access regional markets and participate in regional value chains.
She noted that without strong competition safeguards, the gains expected from trade liberalisation could be undermined by cartels, abuse of market dominance, anti-competitive mergers and other restrictive business practices.
“Fair competition is critical to unlocking the full benefits of the AfCFTA. It creates a level playing field for businesses, protects consumers and supports innovation while ensuring that markets remain open and competitive,” Ombam said.
The Principal Secretary reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to implementing the AfCFTA, saying the government remains focused on creating a transparent, predictable and competitive business environment that attracts investment, supports industrialisation and promotes digital trade.
She said strengthening competition policy would also enhance the participation of Kenyan businesses in regional and continental markets, contributing to inclusive economic growth.
The workshop brought together policymakers, competition experts and trade stakeholders to discuss the implementation of competition frameworks under the AfCFTA and their role in fostering sustainable economic development across Africa.
Among those present were Competition Authority of Kenya Director General David Kemei, CAK Chairperson Kiraitu Murungi, Head of the Competition Division at the AfCFTA Secretariat Malick Diallo, and European Union Delegation to Kenya Trade Counsellor Filippo Amato.
