The African Development Bank (AfDB) group has announced the conclusion of a negotiated settlement agreement with Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Limited.

In a statement on its website, AfDB mentioned that this would put an end to sanctions proceedings for a corrupt practice against the company.

“Pursuant to the negotiated settlement agreement, Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd., registered in Botswana, will be under a conditional non-debarment for a period of 12 months, effective Oct. 11.

“An investigation conducted by the Office of Integrity and Anti-Corruption of the AfDB Group established that Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd. engaged in a corrupt practice.

“This was done in the context of tenders for the construction of Raw Water Pumping Main, Water Treatment Plant, and Treated Rising Main.”

Construction of Treated Gravity Mains, Storage Reservoirs, and Distribution Networks, components of the Manzini Region water supply and sanitation project in Eswatini, are also involved.

According to the statement, a representative of the company made a corrupt offer to an official involved in the procurement process.

The Manzini Region water supply and sanitation project is aimed at providing sustainable water supply and sanitation services.

It is expected to meet the potable water requirements of Manzini and surrounding areas and reduce the risk of environmental pollution of the groundwater.

This will be achieved through the provision of appropriate sanitation services, which will in turn improve the well-being of the inhabitants and spur economic growth in the Manzini Region.

According to the statement, during the period of conditional non-debarment, Unik Construction Engineering (Pty) Ltd. will remain eligible to participate in Bank Group-financed activities.

It said the company would, however, be required to enhance its anti-bribery and integrity compliance programme.

(NAN)