Security in West Asembo Ward is set to improve following the groundbreaking of a Kshs. 14.8 million police station at Riat-Kolemo market, a project fully funded by the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF). Construction is expected to begin immediately.
The new facility, whose construction, equipping, and fencing will be completed by December 2025, aims to address rising concerns over insecurity in the area and will serve as a deterrent to criminal activity in the region.
Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, who presided over the foundation-laying ceremony on Thursday, described the initiative as a “vital investment” in the community’s safety and development.
“When reports of insecurity reached my office, I made it a personal priority to ensure this community gets the security infrastructure it deserves,” said Owalo. “I thank the NG-CDF Board, led by Chairman John Olago Aluoch and CEO Yusuf Mbuno, for supporting this vision.”
The project is part of a national best-demonstration initiative, where the NG-CDF Board selects strategic projects to showcase optimal fund utilization. Rarieda was chosen as one of the beneficiaries in the current financial year.
“This funding does not come from Rarieda’s local CDF allocation,” clarified Olago Aluoch. “It is a direct intervention from the Board to demonstrate to CDF committees across the country how impactful and accountable development can be. This year alone, we will disburse Ksh58 billion to all 290 constituencies, with Rarieda receiving Ksh192 million.”
The land on which the station will be constructed was donated by the Ochieng’ Obado family. Owalo praised the family’s selfless gesture, noting that acquiring a one-acre parcel in such a strategic location is no small feat.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ochieng’ Obado family for their generous donation of the one-acre parcel of land on which the police station will stand. This selfless act will significantly boost security and safety in the area. This land donation is not just an act of goodwill, it is an act of patriotism,” he said.
In a strong warning to criminal elements, Owalo emphasized that once the station is operational, lawlessness will no longer be tolerated. “To the young men engaging in crime, either prepare to change or prepare to serve time,” he warned.
