The COMESA Competition and Consumer Commission (CCCC) has solidified its position as a global leader in regulatory excellence, securing a prestigious joint award from the International Competition Network (ICN) and the World Bank Group (WBG).
The announcement was made during the 2026 ICN Annual Conference, marking a historic milestone for the regional watchdog and the twenty-one Member States it represents.
The CCCC was recognized as a winner of the ICN-WBG Competition Advocacy Contest, specifically under the category of embedding competition principles in the green and digital transitions. This award highlights the Commission’s forward-thinking approach to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility and technological fairness. At the heart of the recognition is the groundbreaking COMESA Competition and Consumer Regulations 2025.
The award-winning framework was lauded for its specific focus on two of the most volatile sectors in the modern economy. In a significant shift for regional policy, the 2025 regulations explicitly integrate environmental sustainability, ensuring that competition policy supports sustainable business practices and carbon-neutral goals. Simultaneously, the framework provides a robust mechanism to address the unique challenges of the digital economy, including platform dominance and algorithmic transparency.
Dr. Willard Mwemba, CEO of the CCCC, accepted the award on behalf of the Commission during the ceremony. Under his leadership, the CCCC has transitioned from a traditional regulator to a proactive advocate for market integrity across the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa. Dr. Mwemba noted that the award serves as a testament to the Commission’s commitment to ensuring the COMESA region is a leader in shaping how competition law fosters a sustainable and digitally inclusive future.
The ICN-WBG advocacy contest is designed to showcase success stories where competition authorities have influenced public policy to improve market outcomes. The CCCC has demonstrated that regional bodies in emerging markets can set the gold standard for global regulatory innovation.
These updated regulations provide the legal certainty needed to attract international tech investment while ensuring the regional green transition remains competitive. Furthermore, the 2025 Regulations serve as a blueprint for Member States to align their national laws with international best practices. This recognition at the ICN Annual Conference places the CCCC at the forefront of the global conversation on the new economy, proving that effective advocacy remains a powerful tool for economic transformation.