The conditional debarment requires China Railway 20th Bureau Group Corporation Ltd, also known as CR20 Ltd, to complete an integrity compliance programme before becoming eligible to participate in future Bank-financed activities.

CR20 Ltd is a construction company registered in China with affiliates operating internationally.

The AfDB said an investigation by its Office of Integrity and Anti-Corruption established that the company committed a fraudulent practice during the first phase of Cameroon’s Transport Sector Support Programme.

The programme was designed to expand and modernise Cameroon’s road network while supporting the country’s efforts to diversify the economy.

AfDB did not provide further details about the nature of the fraudulent practice or the specific contract involved.

During the 13-month debarment period, CR20 Ltd and its affiliates will be ineligible to participate in projects and other activities financed by AfDB.

The conditional release means the company will not automatically regain eligibility when the debarment period ends.

CR20 Ltd must provide evidence that an integrity compliance programme has been completed satisfactorily and is consistent with AfDB guidelines.

The programme is expected to strengthen internal controls and reduce the risk of misconduct during future procurement and project implementation.

Only after meeting those requirements will CR20 Ltd be considered eligible to resume participation in AfDB-financed operations.

The sanction forms part of AfDB’s efforts to protect development resources and maintain integrity in projects funded across Africa.

–AfDB/ChannelAfrica–