107 Bars And Clubs To Be Shut Down By NEMA

By Robai Lundenyi

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a strong warning to 107 bars, clubs, lounges, and restaurants across the country for causing too much noise in residential and public areas.

According to a notice released this week, these entertainment spots could be shut down if they do not meet environmental standards within the next seven days. This move comes after NEMA received countless complaints from members of the public, especially in cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, where loud music and noise from nightclubs and bars have become a growing problem.

NEMA says the number of noise complaints has gone up by 15% over the past year, and they can no longer ignore the issue.

Most of the affected businesses had already been served with what is called Environmental Restoration Orders. These are legal instructions that tell the businesses to fix the environmental damage they are causing and provide important compliance documents. Unfortunately, NEMA says that most of the establishments ignored the instructions or failed to respond. Some of the popular joints now on the spot include 1824 in Lang’ata, Paris Lounge, Cool Breeze Bar in Ruiru, Havana Lounge along the Northern Bypass, Al Fhakeer, Quiver Lounge in both Eastlands and Kilimani, Airport Club, Bar Next Door, Club Ibiza, and Ibury Lounge. Several restaurants have also been mentioned, including Alaska Lounge and Grill, Mchana Restaurant, Funcity Hotel, Kijito Gardens, and Mamba Village.

NEMA has now given these businesses a strict deadline of seven days to submit key documents. These include a certificate of incorporation, a list of directors, a valid Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license, a current environmental audit report, evidence of noise control measures like soundproofing, and a written explanation of why they should not be closed or taken to court. It has been warned that if these businesses fail to submit the required documents within the deadline, they risk immediate closure, prosecution, and other legal actions. The authority says it is taking these steps not to punish businesses, but to protect the peace and health of communities affected by noise pollution. This crackdown is also part of wider environmental efforts as Kenya prepares for World Cleanup Day 2025, which will also focus on issues like textile waste and other forms of pollution.

The Author is Robai Ludenyi, a Journalist with an eye for TV Production

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