Kenya’s environmental regulator has placed more than 100 bars, clubs and restaurants on notice, warning they could be shut down for breaching noise rules.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) said it had received a flood of complaints from residents about loud music in entertainment spots across the country. Popular venues in Nairobi, Ruiru and Mombasa now face the prospect of closure.
“Several facilities have been issued Environmental Restoration Orders requiring them to provide compliance documents, but the majority have failed to comply,” NEMA said in a public notice.
Among those named are well-known Nairobi venues such as Quiver Lounge, 1824, Bar Next Door, Havana, Paris Lounge and Cool Breeze in Ruiru. Restaurants and family establishments were also listed, including Alaska Lounge and Grill, Funcity Hotel and Mamba Village.
The agency said operators have seven days to hand in paperwork proving they meet environmental standards. Required documents include proof of company registration, an environmental audit report and evidence of noise-control measures.
Failure to comply could result in prosecutions, closures and “other legal consequences,” the notice warned.
Noise pollution has become a growing public grievance, particularly in Kenya’s main cities. NEMA said noise-related complaints in Nairobi and Mombasa rose by 15 per cent in the past year, with residents frequently accusing clubs of disturbing neighbourhoods late into the night.
The crackdown comes as Kenya prepares to mark World Cleanup Day, with authorities also targeting textile waste and other environmental risks.
For now, the fate of some of the country’s busiest nightspots hangs in the balance.
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