By John Mutiso
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has shut down several entertainment spots in Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kilifi after they failed to comply with noise pollution regulations.Â
In a notice on Tuesday, December 2, NEMA said the affected clubs did not meet the conditions set out in earlier environmental restoration orders.
“Following the issuance of a public notice on noise pollution control on 18th September, 2025, NEMA has today issued a closure order to the following facilities for failing to comply with the requirements listed in the previous environmental restoration orders issued to them,” the notice read.
The establishments ordered to close are Kettle House, Muthangari Drive; Boba Drinks and Café, Kilimani; Speedy’s Bar and Restaurant, Watamu Beach Road; Bar Next Door, Othaya Road, Kilimani; and Emirates Lounge, Pipeline Area.
Others are Infusion Lounge in Ruaka along Limuru Road; Status Lounge in Ruaka, along Limuru Road; and Kifaru Place, along Mombasa Road.
NEMA noted that it had continued receiving noise complaints from the listed facilities even after earlier warnings, prompting the latest action.
The authority directed the affected establishments to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and sound proof the facility
“The Authority has continued to receive noise complaints from the facilities even after being warned through earlier orders.
“The facilities are therefore directed to: close immediately, undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and obtain a license from the Authority; and soundproof the facility to mitigate noise pollution and undertake a noise survey,” the notice added.
The affected businesses were among 107 bars, restaurants, and entertainment joints warned that they risk closure over noise pollution and non-compliance with environmental regulations.
In a notice on Monday, September 22, the authority said the facilities had been served with Environmental Restoration Orders, but most fail to comply.
“NEMA has been receiving public noise pollution complaints from the public regarding club/lounge, bar & Restaurants across the country.
“Several facilities have been served with Environmental Restoration Orders requiring them to provide environmental compliance documents, but the majority have failed to comply,” the notice read.
NEMA directed the affected establishments to present several mandatory documents, including the certificate of incorporation and a list of directors or owners (CR-12), within seven days from the date of the directive.
The facilities were also expected to submit a valid Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license for the facility; the current Environmental Audit (EA), and details of noise pollution control measures in place.
Further, NEMA directed the establishments to give reasons why legal action or closure should not be taken against them.
