The Government of Fiji has commenced the tendering process for the completion of the Lautoka swimming pool, as announced through the Fiji Procurement Office. In a public notice released on 25 November 2025, the Ministry of Finance indicated that competitive bids are being welcomed from eligible contractors, both local and international, as part of this significant project managed by the Ministry of Local Government.
Bidders are required to strictly adhere to government procurement protocols, ensuring compliance with the specifications detailed in the tender documentation. This includes technical specifications, contract conditions, and requirements for submission.
Previously, the Auditor General highlighted serious planning and management issues surrounding the Lautoka City Council (LCC) swimming pool project. A report tabled in Parliament revealed that the council had paid the principal consultant $289,542 before an official contract was signed. The audit pointed out the necessity for proper planning and management of capital works projects, emphasizing the importance of drafting and signing contractual agreements prior to project initiation.
The auditor noted a discrepancy in the financial records, verifying transactions related to the swimming pool project that totaled $1,452,213VEP, while only $540,518 was documented in the Fixed Assets Schedule. The Principal Consultant was engaged by the council from 2016, but the formal agreement was only signed on December 18, 2017. The absence of clauses addressing delay damages in the contract further complicates the project’s management.
This renewed effort to finalize the swimming pool project through structured tendering reflects the government’s commitment to addressing previous deficiencies and ensuring that future developments are executed with greater accountability and transparency. Such progress not only aims to enhance public amenities in Lautoka but also restores confidence in the governance of municipal projects.