The African Development Bank (AfDB) group has reached a negotiated settlement agreement with Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Limited, thereby concluding the sanctions proceedings related to a corrupt practice against the company.
According to AfDB’s website statement, Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd., a registered company in Botswana, will be subject to a 12-month conditional non-debarment starting from October 11.
An investigation conducted by the AfDB Group’s Office of Integrity and Anti-Corruption revealed that Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd. engaged in a corrupt practice during the tender process for the construction of Raw Water Pumping Main, Water Treatment Plant, Treated Rising Main, Treated Gravity Mains, Storage Reservoirs, and Distribution Networks within the Manzini Region water supply and sanitation project in Eswatini.
The investigation found that a representative of the company made a corrupt offer to a procurement official involved in the project.
The Manzini Region water supply and sanitation project aims to provide sustainable water supply and sanitation services, meeting the potable water needs of Manzini and surrounding areas while minimizing the risk of environmental groundwater pollution.
During the 12-month conditional non-debarment period, Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd. will remain eligible to participate in Bank Group-financed activities, on the condition that the company enhances its anti-bribery and integrity compliance program.