The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) Director General David Kemei says the authority will embark on a review of its instruments and policies to tame uncompetitive behaviour in the market.
Speaking during the 11th Annual Symposium on Competition Law and Policy, Kemei said retooling the laws will insure the authority serves taxpayers in an effective and efficient manner.
“At the moment, the CAK has a good track record, but we are still punching below our weight, especially if you interrogate the state of the market in Kenya, and the numerous issues that still pertain regarding anti-competitive conduct and consumer welfare violations,” said Kemei.
The 11th Annual Symposium which has been organized in collaboration with the Center for Competition Regulation and Economic Development (CCRED) and the COMESA Competition Commission (CCC) targets to foster a close collaboration within the 21 member trading block to ensure fair trade and consumer protection in the region.
“In addition, we are not intent on executing our mandate exclusively through sanctions. While penalties and other painful redress mechanisms are necessary, there is need to walk this journey with our stakeholders, seeking their buy-in in creating a competitive environment that serves the needs of businesses and consumers alike,” he added.
The symposium will also see presentation of 46 academic papers on various topics such as sustainability, food and agriculture, Big Tech, mobile money services, market inquiries, public interest considerations in merger regulation, among others.
This year’s symposium included delegates from eight countries including Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, Somalia and Zambia.
