NEMA Gives 7-Day Ultimatum to 107 Bars Over Noise Pollution

National Environment Management Authority Headquarters/ HANDOUT

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has given 107 bars, restaurants, and entertainment joints a seven-day ultimatum to comply with environmental regulations or face closure.

The directive, issued on Monday, September 22, follows mounting complaints from the public over noise pollution.

“NEMA has been receiving noise pollution complaints from residents across the country regarding clubs, bars and lounges. Several of these facilities were already served with Environmental Restoration Orders, but the majority have failed to comply,” the authority said in its notice.

Among the affected establishments are popular nightlife spots such as Quiver Lounge, Club 1824, Kettle House, Club Image, Alaska Lounge & Grill, Illusion Lounge, Aviator Airport 44, Red Eagle Bar & Restaurant, and Edu’s Bar. Others on the list include eateries, pubs, and lounges spread across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and other counties.

The regulator has directed all affected businesses to submit key compliance documents, including certificates of incorporation and a CR-12 listing of directors or owners, within seven days.

Failure to meet the requirements could result in immediate closure.

NEMA stressed that the crackdown was not only about noise but also part of a broader enforcement push.

The authority had early gave all counties a 21-day deadline to reorganize dumpsites and enforce waste segregation, citing the Sustainable Waste Management Act (SWMA).

“Counties must put in place the necessary infrastructure for waste segregation at source and in transit. This is the only way to achieve the transition to a circular economy as outlined in the SWMA,” NEMA noted.

The Act requires transporters of waste to carry only segregated waste, while counties must provide reception areas at dumpsites for organic, general, residual, and landfill waste. NEMA warned that non-compliance would trigger penalties under Section 27 of the Act.

Midway through its directive, the authority dismissed claims that enforcement was selective, insisting that the law applies to all establishments equally.

“Whether big or small, every business has a duty to protect the environment and public health. No exemptions will be given,” NEMA stated.

Residents have long raised concerns about noise from entertainment joints, especially in residential neighbourhoods, and poor waste management by counties.

Reiterating its stance in the closing remarks, NEMA underscored that enforcement will continue beyond the initial deadlines.

“Take notice that the authority remains at liberty to invoke compliance and enforcement provisions under the law without further warning,” it said.