Nairobi, Feb. 16 -- The Comesa watchdog has launched investigations into alleged anti-competitive conduct by telecommunication firms American Tower Corporation (ATC) and Airtel Africa.

The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) Competition Commission (CCC) said it has received a complaint that a recent deal between the two firms contravenes the trading bloc's competition regulations.

"The Commission has commenced investigations into potential violation of Article 16 of the Regulations by American Tower Corporation and Airtel Africa operating in the Common Market," said CCC chief executive officer Willard Mwemba.

Read: Comesa watchdog urges vigilance in mergers

Article 16 prohibits all agreements which may affect trade ...