Riya Bhagwan 
Lautoka residents can expect improved municipal services following the opening of a new development at the Botanical Gardens.
The Lautoka City Council, in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, has established a coffee shop at the gardens to strengthen its revenue base.
The $530,000 project is expected to stimulate economic activity in Sugar City.
Acting Chief Executive Taitusi Kata says the initiative provides a fresh income source, enabling the council to better serve ratepayers.
The café also adds convenience for visitors, offering dining options that complement the natural park setting.
Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa commended the council’s commitment to completing the project following several years of delays.
He noted that such initiatives are being encouraged nationwide to help municipalities reduce their reliance on government funding.
“These are some of the initiatives that not only the Lautoka City Council, but also other municipalities across the country are also emulating to ensure that they will broaden their wider income streams so that they don’t rely on the government to assist them financially. And this is something that we have been encouraging our council across Fiji to be self-sustainable.”
Nalumisa says the development aligns with broader efforts to upgrade public spaces while promoting self-sustainability among local authorities.
