By Claire Munde
Monday August 24, 2026
File image of eCitizen founder, James Ayugi
The World Bank has barred Webmasters Kenya Ltd and its director, James Ayugi, from participating in World Bank-financed projects for a minimum of five years over fraudulent and obstructive practices.
The sanctions were imposed through Sanctions Board Decision No. 147 in Sanctions Case No. 790 issued on June 8, 2026.
The World Bank report said that the respondents knowingly misrepresented the availability of two key staff members for the contract and used their CVs without authorisation, adding that the two individuals were listed in the company’s technical proposal and contract, with the respondents also confirming that they would be available during contract negotiations.
The Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) stated that the misrepresentation was intended to mislead the project implementation unit and the World Bank and improperly secure a financial benefit of US$98,000, representing the remuneration allocated to the two staff members under the contract.
The World Bank also found that the respondents materially impeded its inspection and audit rights by failing to meaningfully comply with documentary requests made during an audit.
The sanctions are subject to conditional release, meaning the firm and Ayugi can only be released from the debarment after the minimum five-year period if they demonstrate compliance with conditions set out in the Sanctions Board's decision.
The World Bank classifies the conduct as fraudulent and obstructive practices under its January 2011 Guidelines on the Selection and Employment of Consultants by World Bank borrowers.
Webmasters Kenya Ltd is associated with the development and operation of Kenya's eCitizen digital services platform.
The World Bank's decision concerns conduct relating to a World Bank-financed project in Somalia.
