SEC
and the West African Securities Regulators Association (WASRA)
The SEC collaborates with the West African Securities Regulators Association (WASRA), a regional body that facilitates cooperation and information exchange among West African securities regulators.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a founding member and active participant in the West African Securities Regulators Association (WASRA), a regional body dedicated to promoting the harmonization of securities regulation and enhancing investor protection across West Africa. This partnership has been instrumental in fostering a more integrated and efficient capital market ecosystem within the region.
WASRA: Advancing Regulatory Harmonization in West Africa
Founded in 2015, WASRA brings together securities regulators from 15 West African countries, with the mission to:
- Harmonize securities regulation and promote a level playing field in the region
- Strengthen investor protection and market integrity
- Enhance market transparency and efficiency
- Facilitate cross-border capital flows and investments
- Foster capacity building and knowledge sharing among regulators
The SEC's Pioneering Role in WASRA
The SEC has been a driving force behind WASRA's establishment and success, playing a key role in shaping the organization's vision and strategic direction. The SEC's leadership contributions include:
- Hosting the inaugural meeting of WASRA in 2015
- Providing technical expertise and guidance in developing WASRA's regulatory framework
- Championing initiatives to promote cross-border listings and trading
- Advocating for enhanced investor education and protection
Key Achievements of the SEC-WASRA Partnership
The SEC-WASRA partnership has yielded significant milestones in promoting regional capital market integration, including:
- Adoption of the WASRA Common Core Principles for Securities Regulation
- Establishment of a regional cross-border surveillance system
- Development of harmonized regulatory requirements for collective investment schemes
- Implementation of investor education initiatives across the region
Explore WASRA's Initiatives
To learn more about WASRA's initiatives and its impact on the development of West African capital markets, we encourage you to visit the WASRA website
Through its active engagement with WASRA, the SEC remains committed to promoting a harmonized and well-regulated capital market in West Africa, fostering regional economic growth and prosperity.